WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026
rel•ish /ˈrɛlɪʃ/USA pronunciation
n.
v.
WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026- pleasurable appreciation of anything;
enjoyment;
liking: [countable; usually singular]a relish for fast driving.[uncountable]She listened with relish to the gossip. - Foodsomething tasty or appetizing added to a meal, as olives, pickles, or a sweet or sour pickle made of various usually chopped vegetables: [uncountable]served hot dogs with relish.[countable]spicy relishes.
v.
- to take pleasure in;
enjoy: [~ + object]He relishes arguments.[~ + verb-ing]He relishes arguing.
rel•ish
(rel′ish),USA pronunciation n.
v.t.
v.i.
rel′ish•a•ble, adj.
rel′ish•ing•ly, adv.
- liking or enjoyment of the taste of something.
- pleasurable appreciation of anything;
liking:He has no relish for obscene jokes. - Food[Cookery.]
- Foodsomething savory or appetizing added to a meal, as pickles or olives.
- a sweet pickle made of various vegetables, usually chopped or minced.
- Foodan appetizer or hors d'oeuvre.
- a pleasing or appetizing flavor.
- a pleasing or enjoyable quality.
- a taste or flavor.
- a smack, trace, or touch of something.
v.t.
- to take pleasure in;
like;
enjoy:I don't relish the long drive home. - to make pleasing to the taste.
- to like the taste of.
v.i.
- to have taste or flavor.
- to be agreeable.
- Old French, variant of relais remainder, that left behind; see release
- alteration of Middle English reles aftertaste, scent 1520–30
rel′ish•ing•ly, adv.
- 1. 2. gusto, zest. 2. inclination, partiality, predilection, preference. 3. condiment, appetizer. 6. savor. 8. appreciate.
- 1. 2. distaste, disfavor.