Baked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🍞
Add to dictionary

baked

[beɪkt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

food

cooked by dry heat in an oven

Synonyms

cooked, grilled, roasted.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
baked

This is used when food, such as bread, cakes, or cookies, is cooked in an oven without direct exposure to flames.

  • She baked a delicious chocolate cake for the party.
  • The bread was freshly baked this morning.
cooked

This is a general term for preparing food by heating. It applies to various methods like boiling, frying, and baking.

  • He cooked dinner for the entire family.
  • The vegetables were cooked to perfection.
roasted

This is used when food, usually meats or vegetables, is cooked in an oven or over an open flame. Roasting typically involves using higher temperatures and results in a browned or crispy exterior.

  • He roasted a whole chicken for dinner.
  • The roasted vegetables were seasoned perfectly.
grilled

This is used when food is cooked on a grill, typically involving direct exposure to an open flame or heat source. It gives food a distinct charred flavor.

  • We grilled some hamburgers and hot dogs for the barbecue.
  • She loves grilled salmon with a squeeze of lemon.

Examples of usage

  • baked bread
  • baked potatoes
  • freshly baked cookies
Context #2 | Verb

baking

to cook (food) by dry heat in an oven

Synonyms

cook, grill, roast.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
baked

Used for foods that are cooked using dry heat in an oven, often resulting in a firm outer layer.

  • She baked a loaf of bread for dinner.
  • The cookies were freshly baked and still warm.
roast

Involves cooking food, usually meat or vegetables, in an oven or over an open fire, often with a crispy outside.

  • She roasted a turkey for Thanksgiving.
  • The roasted potatoes were perfectly golden and crispy.
grill

Refers to cooking food on a grill, typically over an open flame or hot coals, often producing a charred exterior.

  • We will grill some burgers for the barbecue.
  • Grilled chicken has a smoky flavor that many people enjoy.

Examples of usage

  • She baked a cake for the party.
  • The chef baked the pie in the morning.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Techniques

  • Baking uses dry heat to cook food evenly, which is different from frying or boiling that uses moisture.
  • Different temperatures in baking can change the texture; lower temps make softer goods, while higher temps produce a crispier outer layer.
  • Baking soda and baking powder are common ingredients that help food rise and become fluffy when baked.

Cultural Significance

  • Countries like France and Italy have unique baked goods that reflect their culture, such as baguettes and focaccia.
  • In many cultures, baking is a communal activity, symbolizing family bonds and traditions passed from one generation to the next.
  • Festivals often involve special baked items, like fruitcakes during Christmas or challah bread in Jewish celebrations.

Science of Baking

  • Baking involves chemical reactions, such as the Maillard reaction, which gives baked goods their brown color and rich flavor.
  • The gluten in flour helps create the structure of baked items, trapping gases produced by yeast or baking powder.
  • Temperature control is crucial, as it can determine the success of a baked item; too hot can burn it while too cool can leave it raw.

History

  • The Oldest known baked bread dates back to around 14,000 years ago, predating agriculture.
  • Baking was revolutionized during the Industrial Revolution with the introduction of commercial yeast and ready-made baking mixes.
  • Ancient Egyptians were some of the first bakers, and they created a variety of breads that included ingredients like honey and spices.

Origin of 'baked'

The word 'baked' originated from the Middle English word 'baken', which is a past participle of 'bake'. 'Bake' itself has Old English roots, derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'bakan'. The use of ovens for baking dates back to ancient times, and the process has evolved over centuries to become a common method of cooking. Baking is not only a culinary technique but also a cultural practice with various traditions around the world.


See also: bake, baking.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,204 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.