pickle

word

/ˈpɪkəɫ/
PI-kuhl
/pˈɪkəl/
PI-kuhl

Definition

A pickle is a food, usually a cucumber, preserved in vinegar or brine. In informal English, 'a pickle' can also mean a difficult or troublesome situation.

Usage & Nuances

As a food, most common in North America and the UK for cucumber pickles, but can refer to many pickled vegetables. The idiom 'in a pickle' means in trouble. Distinguish from 'relish' (a chopped condiment).

Example Sentences

The jar is full of pickles.

basic

She made homemade pickles from cucumbers.

basic

If we don't leave now, we'll be in a real pickle.

natural

Can you open this pickle jar for me? My hands are slippery.

natural

Every Thanksgiving, Uncle Joe brings his famous spicy pickles.

natural

I like to eat a pickle with my sandwich.

basic