Definition

A substance derived from the stomach lining of young animals, especially calves, that is used in making cheese by helping to curdle milk.

Example

The cheese maker added rennet to the milk to start the curdling process.

Conversation

Did you know that rennet is used in cheesemaking?

Really? I had no idea how cheese was made.

Yeah, it helps to curdle the milk so they can make cheese.

That’s fascinating! I’ll appreciate my cheese even more now.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rennet originates from the Old French word *renet*, which means 'to curdle' or 'to coagulate'. It refers specifically to the substance used in cheese-making that causes milk to curdle.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old French word for curdling, which helps you remember that rennet is the ingredient that curdles milk in cheese-making.

Visually Confused Words