What is bagel? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of bagel in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of bagel

bagelnoun

bánh mì tròn

/ˈbeɪɡl//ˈbeɪɡl/

Where does the word bagel come from?

The origin of the word "bagel" is a topic of debate among linguists, but the most commonly accepted explanation is that it comes from the Yiddish word "begel," meaning "ring" or "ring-shaped object." This explanation makes sense given that the modern bagel is a ring-shaped bread roll that is boiled before baking. The word "begel" itself has its roots in Middle High German, where it meant "ring-curdled drink" or "a ring-shaped object made from dough." Over time, its meaning evolved to include ring-shaped bread in both German and Yiddish. The first recorded use of the term "bagel" in English was in the mid-19th century, in the context of Jewish immigrant communities in New York City. It's possible that the word was adopted from Yiddish during this time, as many Yiddish speakers moved to America in search of a better life. Other theories about the origin of the word "bagel" include suggestions that it comes from the Old High German word "bagole," meaning "bent stick," because early versions of bagels were shaped like stalks; the Polish word "bergel," meaning "ring-shaped cake"; or the Slavic word "babka," meaning "grandmother's bread," because bagels were traditionally shaped like elderly women's curves. Regardless of its exact origins, the term "bagel" has become a familiar part of the English lexicon, thanks in large part to the enduring popularity of this delightful breakfast food.

Vocabulary summary bagel

typenoun

meaningthe ring

meaningring (worn on a bird's leg for research)

meaning(architecture) cornice, ring (on column)

Example of vocabulary bagelnamespace

  • I woke up craving for a warm, fresh bagel from the local bakery this morning.
  • The smell of freshly toasted bagels in the coffee shop made my mouth water.
  • She grabbed a plain bagel with cream cheese and a strawberry smoothie for breakfast.
  • After a long run, he rewarded himself with a hearty breakfast of bagels, lox, and smoked salmon.
  • He stumbled into the office kitchen at :30, munching on a sesame seed bagel and a bottle of water.

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