daikon
UK[ˈdaɪkɒn]US[ˈdaɪkən]
n
A long, white radish with a mild flavor, used especially in East Asian cuisine.
Etymology
The word 'daikon' is a loanword from Japanese, where 大根 (daikon) literally means "large root." This Japanese term is itself a compound of 'dai' (large, great) and 'kon' (root). The vegetable was introduced to the English-speaking world along with its Japanese name, a common process for culinary and cultural imports. In English, it retains its original form and refers specifically to the mild, white East Asian radish, distinguishing it from the smaller, often spicier red radishes common in Western cuisine.
Analysis
This word is a direct borrowing from Japanese and is not productively segmented using English morphemes.
Examples
The recipe calls for daikon, which can be found in most Asian grocery stores.
She grated some daikon to add a crisp, refreshing element to the salad.
Pickled daikon is a common garnish for many Korean dishes.