noun / adjective
staple
STAY-pul/stˈeɪpʌl/
A basic item regularly used or relied upon.
Rice is a staple in many kitchens around the world.
Etymology
From a word for a regulated market, staple came to mean a principal commodity grown or made in a place. That commercial meaning broadened to a main ingredient or basic item.
In context
Christmas markets are a European staple during the holidays. Prague hosts its Christmas markets from the end of November to the beginning of January
More examples
- We keep pantry staples like flour and beans on hand.
- Potatoes are a staple food in our household.
- A plain white shirt is a staple of her wardrobe.
Forms
staple · staples
Similar words
- mainstay
- Emphasizes being a central support, not simply regularly used.
- necessity
- Implies something indispensable, rather than merely basic or customary.