Category: Food & DrinkPart of speech: nounDifficulty: Common

김치

/gimchi/Roman

English meaning: Kimchi

Definition

Spicy fermented cabbage, Korea's most famous side dish.

Example

“김치는 한국 음식의 기본이에요.”

In English: “Kimchi is the foundation of Korean food.”

Another example: “할머니가 직접 김치를 담그셨어요.”

Usage — When, Where & How

A core noun for kimchi, Korea's iconic fermented side dish, used daily in food contexts. Combines as 배추김치 (cabbage kimchi), 김치찌개 (kimchi stew).

Etymology & Origin

English — Origin & History

The word '김치' (gimchi) originates from Old Korean, with roots likely traced back to a term meaning 'to soak' or 'to dip'. Historically, kimchi has been a staple in Korean cuisine since at least the 7th century, evolving in varieties and preparation methods over time.

Common Collocations

  • 배추김치
  • 김치찌개
  • 김치를 담그다
  • 매운 김치
  • 김치 한 포기

Word Forms

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Word Tools

Literary Heritage

“죽는 날까지 하늘을 우러러 한 점 부끄럼이 없기를”

/Jungneun nalkkaji haneureul ureoleo han jeom bukkeurem-i eopgireul/

“Until the day I die, I wish to look up at the sky without a single shame.”

Yun Dong-ju (윤동주) · Resistance Poet · 1917–1945

Prologue (서시)

Prologue — written while resisting Japanese colonial rule; Yun died in prison at 27

“나 보기가 역겨워 가실 때에는 말없이 고이 보내 드리오리다”

/Na bogiga yeokgyeowo gasil tteae neun maleobsi goi bonaedeuriori da/

“When you leave, weary of seeing me, I will let you go quietly, without a word.”

Kim Sowol (김소월) · Lyric Poet · 1902–1934

Azalea (진달래꽃)

진달래꽃 (Azalea) — one of the most beloved poems in the Korean language

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Language information

Language
한국어
Korean
Script
Hangul
Family
Koreanic
Speakers
80M
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