crisp

Crisp is a term used in English with several related but distinct meanings. As an adjective, it describes something firm, dry, and easily breaking into small pieces, or something fresh and well defined. It can refer to texture, sound, appearance, or conditions such as weather, where the air feels cool and invigorating. In imagery and performance, a crisp presentation implies clarity and precision.

In food and drink, crispness denotes desirable texture. Potato crisps are thin slices fried or baked until they become crisp; in American English these are commonly called potato chips. Apple crisp is a dessert featuring baked apples topped with a crumbly, buttery layer. Crispbread is a dry, hard bread that becomes crisp when toasted and is common in Scandinavian and Baltic cuisines.

Beyond texture, crisp describes clarity and sharpness in various senses, including imagery, acoustics, and design. A photograph or display may be praised for its crisp lines and high definition, while a musical performance can be described as crisp if the timing and articulation are particularly precise.

Crisp is also used as a surname and as a place name in English-speaking regions. In modern contexts, it can appear as part of brand names or product labels. The term should not be confused with CRISPR, the gene-editing technology, which is an acronym with a different origin.