tenderize

verb

ten·​der·​ize ˈten-də-ˌrīz How to pronounce tenderize (audio)
tenderized; tenderizing

transitive verb

: to make (meat or meat products) tender by applying a process or substance that breaks down connective tissue
tenderization noun
tenderizer noun

Examples of tenderize in a Sentence

The marinade helps to tenderize the meat.
Recent Examples on the Web Salt and pepper is essential for tenderizing these cuts of meat—bringing out its flavors and juices while sealing them in at the surface for optimum browning. Renu Dhar, Southern Living, 19 Oct. 2024 The salt in the dry brine helps tenderize the meat and draw moisture out of the bird. Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Oct. 2024 The koji marinade tenderizes the pork and enhances its natural flavors. Sarah Yang, Sunset Magazine, 1 Oct. 2024 For instance, enzymes are used to tenderize meat, to increase the shelf life of alcoholic beverages, to keep bread softer for longer or to make dairy products suitable for people who are lactose intolerant. Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 30 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for tenderize 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'tenderize.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

tender entry 1 + -ize

First Known Use

1930, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tenderize was in 1930

Dictionary Entries Near tenderize

Cite this Entry

“Tenderize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tenderize. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

tenderize

verb
ten·​der·​ize ˈten-də-ˌrīz How to pronounce tenderize (audio)
tenderized; tenderizing
: to make (meat or meat products) tender by using a process or substance that breaks down connective tissue
tenderization noun
tenderizer noun

More from Merriam-Webster on tenderize

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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