verb / noun

munch

MUHNCH/mʌntʃ/

To chew food steadily, often noisily.

He munches on carrot sticks while he prepares dinner.

A man chewing a bite of a crisp carrot, with a rounded cheek, pursed chewing lips, and the freshly bitten carrot held near his mouth.

Etymology

Middle English mocchen already meant chewing. Its origin may imitate the sound, though derivation from or influence by a French verb meaning “eat, bite” is also possible.

In context

Free High-Quality Documentaries12:16

A brood might munch through dozens in a day, keeping the parents busy and hammering the local supply of grubs.

The Fascinating World of Insects | Full Documentary

More examples

We munched popcorn throughout the movie.
The rabbit is munching fresh lettuce.
She pauses for a quick munch on her apple.

Forms

munch · munches · munched · munching

Similar words

chew: Chew is neutral about pace, sound, and enjoyment.
crunch: Crunch emphasizes the sharp sound of chewing hard food.
nibble: Nibble means taking small bites rather than chewing steadily.