kosher
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈkoʊʃər/
KK: /ˈkoʊʃər/
adjective
Definition
Relating to food that is prepared according to Jewish dietary laws, or something that is considered acceptable or legitimate.
Example
The restaurant offers a variety of kosher dishes for its customers.
Conversation
Have you tried that new restaurant downtown?
No, is it kosher?
Yeah, they serve only kosher food, and it's really good!
That sounds awesome! I love finding places that respect dietary laws.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
legitimate
authentic
permissible
Antonyms
unlawful
forbidden
illegitimate
noun
Definition
The set of dietary laws that determine what foods are permissible to eat according to Jewish law.
Example
Many people choose to eat kosher food for religious reasons.
Conversation
Have you ever tried to understand what kosher really means?
Not really, but I know it has to do with food restrictions.
Yeah, it's about following certain dietary laws and practices.
transitive verb
Definition
To make something acceptable or proper according to Jewish dietary laws.
Example
The chef learned how to kosher the kitchen before preparing the meal.
Tense Forms
Past: koshered
Past Participle: koshered
Conversation
Have you ever tried to kosher your kitchen for Passover?
No, I haven't, but I've heard it can be a lot of work.
Yeah, you really need to clean everything and make sure it's kosher for the holiday.
Root Explanation
Kosher originates from Hebrew 'kasher' (meaning fit or proper). It refers to food that is prepared according to Jewish dietary laws, indicating that it is fit for consumption by those who observe these laws.
Memory Tip
Think of the Hebrew word 'kasher' meaning fit or proper — this helps you remember that kosher food is fit for those who follow Jewish dietary rules.
Visually Confused Words
tosher
kasher
josher
cosher
bosher
sher
nonkosher