Definition

A type of dessert made from a soft cake or biscuit, usually served with fruit and cream on top.

Example

We enjoyed a delicious strawberry shortcake at the picnic.

Conversation

Have you ever tried making shortcake at home?

No, I haven't, but it sounds delicious!

It's really easy, especially with fresh strawberries on top.

I love strawberries! I should definitely give shortcake a try this weekend.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Shortcake is formed from "short" (from Old English *sceort*, meaning brief or small) and "cake" (from Old Norse *kaka*, meaning a baked flour confection). The word "shortcake" refers to a type of cake that is light and crumbly, often made with a rich, buttery texture that is not dense.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'brief' or 'small' ('short') combined with a 'baked treat' ('cake') — that's why shortcake is a light, crumbly dessert.

Visually Confused Words