Gristle
/ˈɡrɪs.əl/noun
A tough, cartilaginous tissue found in meat.
Did you know?In medieval times, gristle was often seen as a sign of strength; consuming it was believed to fortify one's bones and vitality.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*gristwō
“a form of tough flesh or cartilage”
Old English
OE
gristl
“tough tissue, cartilage in meat”
Middle English
ME
gristil
“the tough part of the meat, cartilage”
Early Modern English
EModE
gristle
“tough connective tissue in meat, often unwanted but prevalent”
Modern English
Eng
gristle
“referring to the tough, chewy cartilage in meat, often found in joints or bones.”