A condiment is a spice, sauce, or preparation that is added to food to impart a particular flavor, to enhance its flavor, or in some cultures, to complement the dish. The term originally described pickled or preserved foods, but has shifted meaning over time.
Many condiments are available packaged in single-serving packets, like mustard or ketchup, particularly when supplied with take-out or fast- food meals. They are usually applied by the diner, but are sometimes added prior to serving; for example, in a sandwich made with ketchup, mustard or mayonnaise. Some condiments are used during cooking to add flavor or texture to the food ; barbecue sauce, compound butter, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and marmite are examples.
The term condiment comes from the Latin condimentum, meaning " spice, seasoning, sauce" and from the Latin condere, meaning "preserve, pickle, season ".
