English Explanatory Dictionary

masticate

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb
  1. To chew (usually food).
  2. To grind or knead something into a pulp.

Pronunciation

/ˈmæstɪkeɪt/ en-us-masticate.ogg en-au-masticate.ogg

Word forms

masticate masticates masticating masticated

Etymology

From Latin masticātus, perfect passive participle of masticō (“to chew”), see -ate (verb-forming suffix). Alternatively, back-formation from mastication, either ultimately from Ancient Greek μαστιχάω (mastikháō, “to grind the teeth”). Compare French mastiquer.

Related words

mastic mastication masticatory

Derived words

masticable masticator nonmasticating premasticate remasticate unmasticated
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