caviar

American  

[kav-ee-ahr, kav-ee-ahr] / ˈkæv iˌɑr, ˌkæv iˈɑr /

Or caviare

noun

1. the roe of sturgeon, especially the beluga, or other fish, usually served as an hors d'oeuvre or appetizer.

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CAVIAR ¹ British  

/ ˈkævɪˌɑː /

acronym

1. Cinema and Video Industry Audience Research

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caviar ² British  

/ ˌkævɪˈɑː, ˈkævɪˌɑː /

noun

1. the salted roe of sturgeon, esp the beluga, usually served as an hors d'oeuvre

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Etymology

Origin of caviar

First recorded in 1585–95; apparently back formation from caviarie, perhaps from obsolete Italian caviari, plural of caviaro (modern Italian caviale ), of disputed origin; apparently from Turkish havyar, from Persian

Explanation

Caviar is food that's considered a delicacy, although it's really just fish eggs. You might find caviar on the menu at a fancy restaurant. Typically, caviar comes from large fish like sturgeon or salmon, whose eggs are cleaned and lightly salted. Caviar looks like tiny bubbles, ranging in color from black to gray to red, depending on the type of fish. It tastes mildly fishy and salty. The word caviar is French, from a Persian root, khaviyar, from khaya, "egg."

Example Sentences

The starter was inspired by his mother and consisted of a langoustine and green apple tartare, with a kefir and caviar sauce and tomato powder.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

The double-double had no caviar, which was probably a good thing.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 16, 2026

Hundreds of pounds of caviar, black truffle, sushi and tomahawk steak have been shipped to Hollywood for the traditional lavish Oscars after-party this Sunday.

From Barron's • Mar. 11, 2026

Some pieces are classic — simply fish and seasoned rice — while others are dressed with gold, caviar and flowers for an extra touch of luxury.

From Salon • Mar. 7, 2026

Their juices, stored in tanks, become more precious than caviar.

From "We Are the Ants" by Shaun David Hutchinson