Search Dictionary
Definition of baba ganoush
baba ganoush
baba ganoush Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
9
Tier
2
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
A Levantine appetizer or dip consisting of finely chopped or mashed roasted eggplant, blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and various seasonings.
Example
"We ordered a mezze platter for the table that included hummus, warm pita bread, and a distinctly smoky baba ganoush."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for baba ganoushWord Nuance & Usage
Frequently appears with alternative transliterated spellings from Arabic, such as 'baba ghanouj', 'baba ghannouj', or 'baba ghanoush'.
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed from Arabic 'bābā ġannūj', literally translating to 'pampered papa' or 'spoiled daddy', widely believed to refer either to the dish's rich indulgence or to an invention created for a toothless elderly father whose food required mashing.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Baba ganoush. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/baba ganoush