rasher
UK[ˈræʃə(r)]US[ˈræʃər]
n
A thin slice of bacon or ham.
Etymology
The origin of 'rasher' is uncertain but dates to the late 16th century. One plausible theory connects it to the verb 'rash,' meaning 'to cut or slice,' which itself may derive from Old French 'raser' (to scrape, shave). Another theory suggests it comes from the obsolete 'rash,' meaning 'quick,' implying a quickly cooked slice. Regardless of its precise root, the word's journey reflects a specialization in meaning, narrowing from a general action of cutting to refer specifically to a thin slice of cured pork, a usage that has remained stable for centuries.
Analysis
The word 'rasher' is a simplex word. It is not productively formed from identifiable, separable morphemes in modern English.
Examples
He cooked a couple of rashers for breakfast.
The recipe calls for four rashers of smoked bacon.
She prefers her rashers crispy and well-done.