Definition

To remove fat from something, especially in cooking or food preparation.

Example

The chef had to defat the chicken stock before using it in the soup.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I learned a new technique to make soups healthier.

Oh really? What do you do?

I defat the stock before adding the vegetables.

That sounds smart! It really makes a difference in flavor.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Defat is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "fat" (from Old French *fat*, meaning fat or fatty). The word refers to the process of reducing or removing fat from something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing' ('de-') 'fat' — that's why defat means to take fat away.

Visually Confused Words