Gateau

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Gateau

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun

Pronunciation

GAT-oh  /ˈɡatəʊ/

Definition

A rich cake, typically made with cream and decorated; a French-style layered cake with cream fillings and elaborate decoration.

Plain meaning

A gateau (from French gâteau) is a rich, elaborate cake — typically layered, filled with cream, and decorated. The Black Forest gateau is the most famous example in British culture.

Register

Neutral and slightly elevated. Associated with celebration, indulgence, and continental European baking tradition. The Black Forest gateau has an unavoidably nostalgic quality in British culture.