Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

cleanse-the-palate

idiom

/klɛnz ðə ˈpælɪt/

Definition

To refresh or clear the taste in one’s mouth, often between different courses of a meal, in order to enhance the appreciation of subsequent flavors.

Examples

After the rich dessert, the waiter offered a sorbet to cleanse the palate.
She enjoyed the simple salad to cleanse her palate before moving on to the main course.
A glass of water can help cleanse the palate between tastings of different wines.

Meaning

This phrase is commonly used in culinary contexts where a specific taste or food can overshadow others. Cleansing the palate helps individuals to prepare for the next flavor experience.