ngâm

Ngâm is a Vietnamese verb with multiple related meanings. In culinary and preparation contexts, it denotes soaking or steeping ingredients in water or another liquid for a period. The purpose can be to soften, clean, or extract flavors, and the action is common with ingredients such as beans, grains, vegetables, or fish. Examples include ngâm đậu, ngâm gạo, or ngâm cá in nước muối or nước giấm.

In literary and musical contexts, ngâm means to recite or chant poetry, often with measured cadence and modulation. The expression ngâm thơ refers specifically to this practice. The verb can also appear in phrases such as ngâm nga, meaning to hum softly; both senses emphasize voice and rhythm rather than literal immersion.

Etymology and meaning distinctions in Vietnamese are linked to different historical Chinese characters. The soaking sense commonly corresponds to a character meaning to immerse or soak, while the reciting or chanting sense comes from a character meaning to chant or intone. In modern Vietnamese, the two meanings are distinguished by context and accompanying words, though the spelling is the same.

Usage notes: In standard writing, the intended meaning is usually clear from surrounding terms, such as ngâm nước, ngâm gạo, ngâm cá, ngâm thơ, or ngâm nga. The term is widely used in food preparation, literature and criticism, and everyday speech, reflecting its dual sensory and cultural functions.