English Reference

Word

fries

US/ˈfɹaɪz/

UK/fɹˈaɪz/

Plural noun

Definition

n. thin pieces of potato that have been cooked in hot oil until they are crispy.

n. thin strips of potato deep-fried until crisp; an abbreviation of 'French fries' common in North American and Philippine English.

Examples

“I would like a burger with a side of fries.”

“The restaurant serves its burgers with a generous portion of salty, golden-brown fries and a small cup of ketchup.”

“While traditional fries are made from white potatoes, many modern bistros offer sweet potato alternatives seasoned with rosemary and sea salt to provide a more complex flavor profile.”

Examples

simple

“I would like a burger with a side of fries.”

contextual

“The restaurant serves its burgers with a generous portion of salty, golden-brown fries and a small cup of ketchup.”

complex

“While traditional fries are made from white potatoes, many modern bistros offer sweet potato alternatives seasoned with rosemary and sea salt to provide a more complex flavor profile.”

Usage

Usually used in the plural form; the singular 'fry' is rare when referring to a single piece of potato.

Synonyms

chipsFrench fries

Related words

ChipFry

Domain

Cooking

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A1 MoversIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.2.0–3.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 1.0–1.50–23TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.120–224
Frequency
Frequent
Level
A1 · Beginner
Updated
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American English

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