noun / verb
filet
fih-LAY/fɪˈleɪ/
A boneless cut of meat or fish, or preparing such a cut.
The sliced beef filet reveals a pink interior beneath its browned surface.
Etymology
The pieces mean “little thread,” also used for a narrow strip or band. The meat sense apparently arose because the cut was prepared by tying it with string.
In context
They pair very well with dishes based on game and poultry... such as pigeon and filet de boeuf. These go very well with Santenay wines.
More examples
- The fishmonger filets the trout while we wait.
- He fileted the fish before heating the pan.
- Two beef filets sizzle in the skillet.
Forms
filet · filets · fileted · fileting
Similar words
- debone
- Removes bones without necessarily producing a neat, separate cut.
- cutlet
- Usually a thin meat portion, sometimes with a bone.