Cook Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cook
[kʊk ]
Definitions
in the kitchen
To prepare (food) by the use of heat, as by boiling, baking, or roasting.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cook |
Appropriate when referring to the general process of preparing any type of meal, especially on the stove.
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| prepare |
Often used in more formal or professional contexts, emphasizing the steps involved in getting food ready to cook or serve.
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| make |
Applicable to the creation or assembly of a meal or dish, especially when the specific cooking method is not the focus.
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| bake |
Used when referring to cooking food in an oven, particularly for items like bread, cakes, and pastries.
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Examples of usage
- She loves to cook Italian dishes for her friends.
- He is cooking dinner for his family tonight.
profession
A person who prepares and cooks food, especially as a job or in a specified way.
Synonyms
chef, culinarian, kitchen worker.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cook |
Common term used to describe someone who prepares food, generally in less formal settings like home kitchens or casual restaurants.
|
| chef |
Professional term for someone who is trained and skilled in the preparation of food, usually in a formal or high-end restaurant setting.
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| culinarian |
More formal and less commonly used term, referring to someone who is skilled in the art of cooking, or has a professional training in culinary arts.
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| kitchen worker |
General term used to describe someone who works in a kitchen, which could include roles such as preparatory staff, line cooks, and dishwashers. It may imply a variety of tasks beyond just cooking.
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Examples of usage
- She works as a cook in a restaurant.
- The cook specializes in French cuisine.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The act of cooking dates back over 2 million years, with early humans using fire to make food tastier and easier to digest.
- In ancient Egypt, chefs were highly regarded, often managing large kitchens for royal families and temples.
- The word 'cook' comes from the Latin word 'coquere,' which means 'to cook or prepare food.'
Cultural Significance
- Cooking varies greatly across cultures, with each region having its unique flavors, methods, and traditional recipes.
- Festivals in many cultures often feature specific dishes that are prepared traditionally, symbolizing heritage and community.
- In some cultures, cooking is seen as an art form, with chefs innovating and presenting dishes not just for taste but for visual appeal.
Science of Cooking
- Cooking alters the chemical structure of food, making nutrients more available and enhancing flavors through processes like caramelization and emulsification.
- Heat also kills harmful bacteria in food, making it safer to eat.
- Different cooking methods, such as boiling, roasting, and frying, affect the texture and flavor of ingredients in unique ways.
Pop Culture
- Cooking shows have become immensely popular, with programs showcasing everything from home cooking to upscale gourmet techniques.
- Famous chefs like Julia Child and Gordon Ramsay have transformed cooking into an entertaining performance, inspiring many to try their hand at it.
- Culinary competitions like 'Top Chef' highlight not just skill but creativity and innovation in the kitchen.
Psychology
- Cooking can serve as a therapeutic activity, helping to reduce stress and promote mindfulness as people focus on the task at hand.
- Sharing meals cooked at home is linked to fostering connections and improving relationships among family and friends.
- Studies have shown that engaging in cooking can boost self-esteem and creativity, as individuals experiment with flavors and presentation.
Origin of 'cook'
The word 'cook' originated from the Old English word 'cōc', which referred to a person who prepared food. Over time, the meaning expanded to include the action of preparing food by using heat. Cooking has been an essential part of human culture and evolution, as it allows for the transformation of raw ingredients into nutritious and delicious meals.
See also: cooked, cooker, cookhouse, cookie, cooking, cookout, cooktop, cookware, overcook, overcooked, precook, precooked, uncooked, undercooked.