crudites
UK[ˈkruːdɪteɪ]US[ˌkruːdɪˈteɪ]
n
a selection of raw vegetables, often cut into pieces and served with a dip as an appetizer.
Etymology
the english word 'crudités' is a direct borrowing from the french plural noun 'crudités', which translates literally as 'raw things'. it originates from the french adjective 'cru', meaning 'raw', which itself descends from the latin 'crūdus' (raw, bloody, uncooked). the latin term is traced back to the proto-indo-european root krewh₂- meaning 'raw flesh' or 'blood'. the modern culinary term entered english in the mid-20th century, retaining its french spelling and pronunciation, to specifically denote an appetizer of assorted raw vegetables. the evolution from a general term for raw things to a specific, refined culinary presentation illustrates the cultural transmission of food terminology.
Analysis
this word is a loanword from french. it is not productively segmented using english morphemes. the french word 'crudités' is derived from the french adjective 'cru' meaning 'raw' and the suffix '-ité' (from latin '-itas') forming a noun meaning 'the state or quality of being raw'.
Examples
the restaurant served a colorful platter of crudites with a creamy herb dip.
for a healthy start, she prepared crudites including carrot sticks, celery, and bell pepper strips.
the crudites were arranged artfully around a central bowl of hummus.