What does savouriness mean?
Savouriness is a noun meaning the quality of being savoury or appealing. In its most literal sense, it refers to a pleasant or distinctive taste or smell, as in the savouriness of a well-seasoned dish. It can also describe a quality that makes a story, place, or experience vivid and engaging. The word is somewhat literary and is especially associated with British English, where the related adjective savoury is common in both culinary and figurative contexts. While savoury food is valued for its rich or appetizing flavor, something with savouriness more broadly is memorable, distinctive, and satisfying to experience. The term is less frequent in contemporary American English, which normally uses savoriness.
nounThe quality of being savoury, especially the pleasant or distinctive quality of something that appeals to the senses or intellect. It can also mean the quality of being appetizing or having a pleasant taste or smell.
- The quality of being appetizing or having a pleasant, distinctive taste or smell.
- The quality of being interesting, attractive, or intellectually engaging.
"The critic praised the savouriness of the restaurant’s traditional dishes."
"The slow-cooked lamb had a rich savouriness that complemented the herbs."
"Her account of life in the village is full of warmth and savouriness."
Usually used as an uncountable noun; the plural form is uncommon.
"The restaurant is famous for the savourinesses of its regional cuisine."
Savouriness suggests appeal that engages more than the tongue: a meal can be savoury, but so can be a story full of vivid, intriguing detail.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does savouriness come from?
Savouriness is formed from the adjective savoury by adding the suffix -ness. Both savoury and its relatives derive through Old French from Latin sapere, meaning ‘to taste’ or ‘to have a taste.’ Related English words include savour, savor, and sapid, reflecting the same long-standing association with taste and sensory appeal.
How savouriness is actually used
Somewhat literary or old-fashioned in modern English, especially in the sense of intellectual or narrative interest. It is more common in British usage than in American English.
Easily confused with savouriness
Savour is a verb or noun meaning to taste or smell something with pleasure, whereas savouriness is the quality of being savoury or appealing.