Déchappé

Déchappé is a term used in various contexts, often referring to something that has escaped or been set free. In a culinary sense, it can describe food that has been lightly cooked and then cooled, allowing it to retain some of its natural texture and flavor. For example, vegetables might be blanched and then rapidly chilled to preserve their crispness.

In the realm of horology, déchappé refers to a type of escapement mechanism found in some watches. This mechanism is designed to regulate the release of energy from the mainspring, allowing the watch to keep accurate time. A déchappé escapement typically involves a lever that oscillates, controlling the movement of the gear train.

The term can also appear in more general contexts, signifying an escape from confinement or a release from a restrictive situation. This might be a literal escape from a physical location or a metaphorical liberation from a difficult circumstance. The specific meaning of déchappé is therefore dependent on the context in which it is used.