Definition

The soft, green liver of a cooked lobster, which is often regarded as a delicacy.

Example

Many seafood lovers enjoy the rich flavor of tomalley in their lobster dishes.

Conversation

Have you ever tried tomalley from a lobster?

Yeah, I love it! It's so rich and flavorful.

I wasn’t sure if I would like it, but it’s actually delicious.

Totally! It’s definitely a treat if you enjoy seafood.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tomalley is derived from the American English term, which refers to the soft, greenish substance found in the body of a lobster, specifically the liver and pancreas. The word itself does not have clear roots in Latin, Greek, or Old French, but is believed to be a combination of the word 'tomal' (from the Native American term for lobster) and the suffix '-ley', which is a diminutive or affectionate form. Thus, it refers to the soft, edible part of the lobster.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tomal' as a term related to lobster, and '-ley' as a way to make it sound softer or more endearing. This helps you remember that tomalley is the soft, edible part of a lobster.

Visually Confused Words