Definition of oyster

oysternoun

con hàu

/ˈɔɪstə(r)//ˈɔɪstər/

The word "oyster" has a fascinating origin, dating back to ancient times when the shellfish was not a popular delicacy but rather a mere curiosity for scientists and philosophers. The Latin word for oyster is "ostrea," which means "ear of sharp-edged things" due to the rough texture of the oyster shell. This word was adapted into Old French as "oistre" and then into Middle English as "ostre." In Old English, the word for oyster was "æcer," which was derived from the word "ace" meaning "sharp." This linguistic connection suggests that the sharp edges of the oyster shell were a prominent feature in the minds of the Anglo-Saxon people. The modern English form of the word "oyster" is believed to have originated in the late Middle English period, as a result of a merger of the Old French and Old English terms. However, it wasn't until the 18th century that oysters became an important cultural and economic export due to advances in transportation and refrigeration technologies. The rise of oyster consumption in England during this time was displayed in the popular saying, "A man should be born with an oyster in his mouth," which was a precursor to today's slang expression, "born with a silver spoon in his mouth." So, in summary, the word "oyster" has roots in the Latin language, with Old French and Old English contributing to its modern English form. The oyster's rough shell texture and sharp edges played a significant role in its linguistic evolution, leading to a fascinating etymological journey for this marine delicacy.

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Example:
  • The seafood restaurant served a platter of fresh oysters on the half shell, and we couldn't resist slurping them down one by one.

    Nhà hàng hải sản phục vụ một đĩa hàu tươi trên nửa vỏ, và chúng tôi không thể cưỡng lại việc húp từng con một.

  • As a seafood lover, Emily couldn't resist grabbing a dozen oysters from the raw bar.

    Là một người yêu thích hải sản, Emily không thể cưỡng lại việc lấy một tá hàu từ quầy hải sản sống.

  • The chef expertly shucked the oysters, revealing their briny goodness.

    Đầu bếp khéo léo tách vỏ hàu, để lộ vị mặn ngon tuyệt của chúng.

  • Sarah delicately dipped each oyster in vinegar before popping it into her mouth.

    Sarah nhẹ nhàng nhúng từng con hàu vào giấm trước khi cho vào miệng.

  • The shellfish house displayed its oysters in a chilled display, tempting the patrons to indulge.

    Ngôi nhà bán sò điệp trưng bày những con hàu ướp lạnh, hấp dẫn thực khách.

  • The waiter recommended trying the oysters with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh chives.

    Người phục vụ khuyên bạn nên thử món hàu với một ít chanh và rắc thêm chút lá hẹ tươi.

  • Matthew savored the flavor of the plump, juicy oysters, savoring the briny taste.

    Matthew thưởng thức hương vị của những con hàu mọng nước, tận hưởng vị mặn.

  • The morning breeze blew through the oyster beds, causing the clattering of shells and the refreshing aroma of the sea.

    Làn gió buổi sáng thổi qua các bãi hàu, tạo nên tiếng va chạm của vỏ sò và hương thơm tươi mát của biển.

  • The couple enjoyed oysters as an appetizer before devouring their seafood feast.

    Cặp đôi thưởng thức món hàu khai vị trước khi thưởng thức bữa tiệc hải sản của mình.

  • Lydia wore gloves as she collected the oysters from the bottom of the creek, wincing at the sharp pebbles beneath her feet.

    Lydia đeo găng tay khi nhặt hàu từ dưới đáy lạch, nhăn mặt vì những viên sỏi sắc nhọn dưới chân.

Idioms

the world is your oyster
there is no limit to the opportunities open to you
  • With talent like that, the world is her oyster.