Savory
Etymology
From Old French "savouré," from Latin "sapor" (taste, flavor), which comes from "sapere" (to taste — and, figuratively, to be wise), the same root behind "sapient." In English, the word came to mark the pleasing, non-sweet end of the flavor spectrum.
adjective · /SAY-vuh-ree/
Belonging to the salty, meaty, herby side of flavor rather than the sweet one.
What it names
It draws the fundamental line eaters navigate every day — the border between a savory dish and a sweet one, between dinner and dessert.
Example
She wanted something savory after all that cake, so she reached for olives and cheese.
Related idea
Broader than umami: savory is the whole category of non-sweet, appetizing flavor, whereas umami is one specific glutamate taste that often anchors it.