English Reference
noun

bacon

n.
US /ˈbeɪkən/ UK /bˈeɪkən/ ba·con UK spelling bacons

  1. 01 A2 Elementary Cooking

    meat from a pig that has been treated with salt and smoke, usually served in thin slices.

    cured meat from the sides, belly, or back of a pig, typically sliced into strips and fried or grilled.

    Simple

    We had crispy bacon and eggs for breakfast on Sunday morning.

    In context

    The chef insisted on using thick-cut, applewood-smoked bacon to add a savory depth to the traditional club sandwich.

    Usage

    Usually uncountable when referring to the meat in general, but can be countable in 'rashers of bacon'.

    porkrasher
  2. 02 C1 Advanced SlangInformalVulgar

    a rude word for the police.

    a derogatory slang term for police officers or law enforcement collectively.

    Simple

    The teenagers ran away as soon as they saw the bacon arriving.

    In context

    In certain underground subcultures, 'the bacon' is a common, albeit disrespectful, shorthand for any visible police presence in the neighborhood.

    Usage

    Usually used with the definite article 'the'.

    Teacher's tip

    This is highly informal and can be offensive; students should understand it when watching films but avoid using it in real-life interactions with authorities.

  3. 03 B1 Intermediate Cooking

    food made from plants or other meat that is made to look and taste like pork bacon.

    a food product designed to mimic the flavor and texture of pork bacon, often made from turkey or plant-based proteins.

    Simple

    She prefers turkey bacon because it has less fat than the pork version.

    In context

    As veganism grew in popularity, many restaurants began offering plant-based bacon made from marinated tempeh or shiitake mushrooms.

    veggie baconfacon
This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated