dim sum

/ˌdɪm ˈsʌm/ Chinese Origin Food & Drink

Original Word

点心

Cantonese (dím sām)

Entered English

Mid 20th century

First recorded usage in English

The Story Behind "dim sum"

From Cantonese 'dím sām' (点心), literally 'touch the heart', referring to small dishes served with tea. The tradition of yum cha (drinking tea) with dim sum originated in Guangzhou teahouses.

Example Usage

"Let's go for dim sum this Sunday morning."

All Chinese Loanwords Look Up in Dictionary

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