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Glite Dictionary
🥚 Egg white cord 🌱 Plant ovule base
chalaza

chalaza

1 9.9
Two twisted bands that hold an egg yolk in the middle
  • noun
  • /kəˈleɪzə/
  • Specialized
: chalaza
  • Some recipes advise removing the chalaza for a smoother custard texture.

Examples

  • The chalaza helps keep the yolk centered in the egg.

  • The chalaza keeps the yolk suspended in the center of the egg.

  • When separating an egg, you might notice the chalaza attached to the yolk.

  • Look at the chalaza in this egg!

  • The chalaza consists of two twisted strands that hold the yolk in place within the egg.

  • When you crack an egg open, look for the chalaza as it helps indicate freshness.

  • The chalaza connects the yolk to the membrane, ensuring it remains centered during cooking.

Surface Forms

chalaza singular
chalazas plural

Etymology

Chalaza comes from the Greek word chalaza, which meant 'small lump' or 'hailstone'. In eggs the chalaza are the twisted 'cords' or 'knots' that hold the yolk in the center, so the name points to their knot-like shape.