tempura
Americannoun
noun
Etymology
Origin of tempura
1935–40; < Japanese tenpura, allegedly < Portuguese tempêro seasoning, taste (derivative of temperar to season < Latin temperāre; see temper)
Explanation
Tempura is a Japanese dish where seafood or vegetables are lightly battered and fried to a crispy perfection. The tempura cooking technique was introduced to Japan by Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century and has since become a staple in Japanese cuisine. The light and airy texture of tempura makes it a favorite at Japanese restaurants around the world. Often served with a dipping sauce or sprinkled with salt, tempura showcases the delicious harmony of delicate batter and fresh ingredients.
Vocabulary lists containing tempura
World Cuisine - Introductory
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World Cuisine - Middle School and High School
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Foods from Asia
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
I’d roam Gardena and Torrance, eating soba, udon and tempura.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 21, 2026
The shrimp and vegetable tempura was remarkably light and crisp, while the tiraditos — sashimi dressed with vibrant Peruvian sauces — showcased the restaurant’s unique perspective.
From Salon ● Jun. 11, 2026
There will also be shrimp tempura and Georgia peach and ricotta flatbread with hot honey.
From BBC ● Mar. 18, 2026
It’s served tempura style with brown butter, aged Buddha’s hand fruit, fresh walnuts and black truffle.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 18, 2025
Where the odors of tempura, raw fish and cha had dominated, the aroma of chitlings, greens and ham hocks now prevailed.
From "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
