# vegetarianism

/ˌvɛdʒəˈtɛˌɹiəˌnɪzəm/ (US) · /vˌɛdʒɪtˈeəɹiənˌɪzəm/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/vegetarianism
Updated: 2026-10-19

## Definition

a way of eating that avoids meat and fish. You eat vegetables, fruit, grains, and often eggs and dairy.

For teachers: abstention from meat and fish for ethical, health, or environmental reasons. Typically includes plant foods and often dairy products and eggs, distinct from veganism.

## Examples

- She follows vegetarianism for health and ethical reasons.
- After watching a documentary on factory farming, he explored vegetarianism and started cooking lentil curries at home.
- While vegetarianism reduces meat-related emissions, nutritionists note that balanced meal planning remains essential to avoid iron and vitamin B12 deficiencies.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.