vegetarian
/ˌvɛdʒɪˈtɛəriən/A person who does not eat meat or fish, and sometimes other animal products, for ethical, health, or environmental reasons.
She has been a vegetarian for over a decade.
He follows a vegetarian diet to reduce his carbon footprint.
Vegetarianism can vary in strictness, with some vegetarians avoiding all animal products, while others may consume dairy or eggs.
Relating to or consisting of vegetables or plant-based foods.
The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian dishes.
This vegetarian recipe uses tofu as a protein substitute.
This definition applies to food, diets, or products that do not contain meat.
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💡Pro Tip
Cultural Sensitivity
In some cultures, vegetarianism is a religious practice, while in others, it is a lifestyle choice. Be mindful of cultural differences when discussing dietary preferences.
⚡Gold Rule
Clarify Your Meaning
When using 'vegetarian,' specify if you mean a person or a diet, as the term can apply to both.
📖Word Origin
From the Latin 'vegetus' (whole, fresh) + '-arian' (relating to). Coined in the 19th century to describe a diet excluding meat.
📝Usage Notes
Vegetarianism is often associated with ethical concerns about animal welfare, environmental sustainability, or health benefits. Some vegetarians may also avoid gelatin, honey, or other animal-derived ingredients.