WordGarden.iochewable
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /tʃjˈuːəbəl/
US
Meanings
Adjective
able or suitable to be chewed
made to be chewed before swallowing, especially a tablet or vitamin
Beyond the definition
Something that's chewable isn't just something you can chew—it's meant to be chewed. Think of a dog biscuit or those little fruit snacks kids love. It implies a texture that yields easily when bitten, rather than being hard or brittle. While technically almost anything could be chewed (though maybe not advisable!), "chewable" usually describes food or items specifically made for that action. You might describe a vitamin as "chewable" to indicate it's not a pill you swallow with water, but one you enjoy breaking down in your mouth.
Imagine a pioneer woman making hardtack biscuits—those are not chewable! But her children's fruit leather? Definitely chewable. The term is often used in marketing to emphasize ease of consumption, especially for vitamins or medications intended for children.
The word "chewable" describes something that's soft enough and designed to be broken down by chewing. It goes beyond simply being capable of being chewed; it suggests a deliberate texture meant for this purpose. Think about the difference between trying to chew on a rock (definitely not chewable!) versus enjoying a piece of taffy (very chewable!).
This term is most commonly used in relation to food, particularly treats or supplements intended for easy consumption. A "chewable vitamin" isn't swallowed whole; it's meant to be enjoyed as you break it down with your teeth. Similarly, a dog might happily gnaw on a chewable bone designed to satisfy its natural chewing instincts.
However, "chewable" can also extend beyond food. A baby toy might be described as "chewable" if it's made of soft, safe materials intended for a teething infant to gum and bite on.
The key is that something chewable isn't just malleable; it actively invites the act of chewing—offering a satisfying texture and easy breakdown in the mouth. It implies a level of softness and pliability that makes the experience enjoyable, or at least manageable, for the chewer. So next time you see "chewable" on a package, remember it's more than just about being able to chew—it's about inviting you to!
Examples
- 1
Children's vitamins
The children's vitamins are chewable and taste like fruit.
- 2
Children's medicine
For kids who can't swallow pills yet, this medicine is available in a chewable form.
- 3
Pet medicine
The vet gave us a chewable tablet for the dog, which made the treatment much easier.
- 4
Medicine label
Check the label carefully, because some tablets are chewable and others must be swallowed whole.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- chewableadjective