Pronunciation: [dɪspjˈuːme͡ɪt] (IPA) 
Despumate (/?d?spju?me?t/) is a rare verb meaning to remove the foam or froth from a liquid. The word is derived from the Latin word "despumare," which means to skim off the foam. The "des-" prefix means removal, while "pumate" refers to the bubbly, frothy texture of a liquid. The spelling of Despumate is challenging because the word is unfamiliar to many individuals, and the root words do not give an indication of its meaning.
Despumate is a verb that comes from Latin "despumatus," which means "to remove the scum." It refers to the action of purifying or clarifying a liquid by removing or skimming off the impurities or foam that form on its surface. The term is mainly used in the context of cooking or brewing processes, as well as in the field of chemistry.
In culinary applications, despumation is a crucial step in making stocks, sauces, or soups. During cooking, these preparations often release a layer of foam or scum composed of impurities, fats, and proteins that rise to the top. Despumating involves skillfully and carefully removing this undesirable layer to improve the taste and appearance of the final product.
In chemistry, despumate is used to describe the process of removing foam or froth from a liquid to obtain a clearer solution. This can be achieved through physical methods, such as skimming or filtering, or by adding chemical agents or coagulants to the liquid.
Overall, despumate is a term that signifies the act of ridding a liquid of unwanted particles or froth, resulting in a clarified and cleaner substance. Whether in the kitchen or the lab, despumation is a crucial step in achieving the desired quality and consistency of various liquids.
To froth; to throw off in foam.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word despumate comes from the Latin term despumatus, which is the past participle of the verb despumare. Despumare is a combination of the prefix de- (meaning away or off) and the verb spumare (meaning to foam or to froth). Thus, despumate essentially means to remove the foam or to skim off the froth.
