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E number

Any of a range of European abbreviations for food additives used on labels.

ˈi ˈnʌmbɚ211 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
🇬🇧 British & Irish slang
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UK
#1·Apr 27, 2026UK

Any of a range of European abbreviations for food additives used on labels.

The E number E100 represents turmeric.
Cluster: eat
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UK
#2·Apr 27, 2026UK

(British, Ireland, informal) Any such additive, often regarded as undesirable.

For parents

E number means: Any such additive, often regarded as undesirable.. It is mainly Irish English and may not be understood outside that context. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour. If your teen uses it, context will usually make the intent clear. A short, curious question about where they heard it is usually all that is needed to know whether to follow up.

For ESL learners

E number means: Any such additive, often regarded as undesirable.. Register: informal, Irish English. Often not understood outside its region; gloss the word on first use when writing for an international audience. A common learner mistake is using the word in a register it does not fit, or assuming a single global meaning; native speakers immediately notice when slang appears in formal contexts, so always check the surrounding register before producing it yourself.

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🇬🇧About British & Irish slang slang

UK and Irish slang — Cockney, Scouse, Geordie, Yorkshire, Glaswegian, Brummie, Welsh, West Country, plus Irish English. Centuries of regional dialects feeding into modern British and Irish street talk.

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