umami
/uːˈmɑː.mi/
Japanese Origin
Food & Drink
Original Word
旨味
Kanji (umami)
Entered English
2000s
First recorded usage in English
The Story Behind "umami"
From Japanese 'umami' (旨味), meaning 'pleasant savory taste'. Identified as the fifth basic taste by Professor Kikunae Ikeda in 1908. Officially recognized by the scientific community in the 2000s.
Example Usage
"Mushrooms and aged cheese are rich in umami flavor."