gratin

noun

gra·​tin ˈgra-tᵊn How to pronounce gratin (audio) ˈgrä- How to pronounce gratin (audio)
1
: a brown crust formed on food that has been cooked au gratin
also : a dish so cooked
2
: upper crust
the gratin of London society

Examples of gratin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In addition to Peking duck, which has to be ordered at least a day ahead of time, the menu also features plum sauce baby pork ribs, a black truffle gratin lobster tail and seasonal dishes, like winter osmanthus flowers. — Kate Bradshaw, Mercury News, 25 Aug. 2026 What to Serve With Zucchini and Squash Gratin This creamy gratin pairs especially well with lighter proteins like chicken, fish, and pork. — Martha Stewart, 18 Aug. 2026 The beef fillet with wild mushroom gratin and autumn black truffle is the stand-out – but take care. — Harriet Marsden, TheWeek, 2 June 2026 Think of this recipe as the perfect middle ground between potato salad and cheesy potato gratin. — Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 11 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for gratin

Word History

Etymology

French, from Middle French, from grater to scratch

First Known Use

1806, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of gratin was in 1806

Phrases Containing gratin

Rhymes for gratin

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Browse Nearby Words

gratillity
gratin
gratinate
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Gratin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gratin. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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