Biscuit

/ˈbɪskɪt/ noun

Definition

In British English, a biscuit is a small, crisp, sweet or savory baked snack similar to an American cookie or cracker. In American English, a biscuit is a soft, bread-like roll often eaten with meals.

Etymology

From Old French “bescuit,” from Latin “bis” (twice) and “coquere” (to cook), meaning “twice-baked.” Early biscuits were baked twice to make them dry and long-lasting.

Kelly Says

The same word “biscuit” describes something crunchy in the UK and something fluffy in the US, which can really confuse learners. Remember its origin—“twice-cooked”—to picture those hard, travel-ready biscuits sailors once ate.

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