In a general sense, a "loaf" typically refers to a solid and often oblong or cylindrical mass of bread, typically baked from dough made of flour, water, yeast, and other ingredients. Loaves of bread come in various shapes, sizes, and types, ranging from traditional sliced sandwich loaves to artisanal or specialty bread loaves with distinctive flavors and textures. The term "loaf" can also be used more broadly to describe a similar-shaped mass of other food substances, such as meatloaf, where ground meat is shaped into a loaf and baked or cooked. Essentially, a loaf is a fundamental unit of food that is often sliced and served as a staple in many cuisines worldwide.
