What Americans call a cookie. As a corollary it has nothing to do with what Americans call a biscuit.
Biscuit
Example Sentences
"That's a proper Biscuit, that is."
"I've never seen such a Biscuit in all my life."
Etymology & History
From Latin 'bis coctus' (twice baked), referring to the medieval practice of baking bread twice for ship storage. In Britain, refers to sweet or savory crisp baked goods (American: cookies). The usage split occurred as commercial baking developed in 19th century. American 'biscuit' refers to soft bread roll. Rich tea, digestives, and custard creams are quintessential British biscuits.
Word Details
📍
Region
General British
📅
Era
Victorian
✓
Language
Mild
💬
Formality
Informal
Categories:
Learn Another Word
🔀 Shuffle & Discover
Anglotopia's Dictionary of British English 2nd Edition
British Slang from A to Zed
By Jonathan Thomas
📚 Over 2,000+ British Slang Definitions!