feta
UK[ˈfetə]US[ˈfetə]
n
a soft, white greek cheese made from sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep's and goat's milk, preserved in brine.
Etymology
the word "feta" entered english in the 20th century as a direct borrowing from modern greek φέτα (féta), meaning "slice." this greek term itself derives from the italian word "fetta," which shares the same meaning. the italian "fetta" is believed to have roots in latin, possibly connected to "offa," meaning "morsel" or "lump." the semantic connection is clear: the cheese is traditionally produced and stored in large blocks, from which slices or portions are cut for consumption, thus giving the cheese its name based on its form.
Analysis
this word is a loanword from modern greek and is not productively segmented using english morphemes.
Examples
the greek salad was generously topped with crumbled feta cheese.
she prefers the tangy flavor of sheep's milk feta over the milder cow's milk varieties.
for the appetizer, wrap slices of feta and roasted red pepper in phyllo dough.