Cookhouse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cookhouse

[ˈkʊkˌhaʊs ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

place for cooking

A cookhouse is a building or area where food is prepared and cooked, typically in a communal setting such as a military camp or logging camp.

Synonyms

canteen, kitchen, mess hall.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
cookhouse	Typically used in military settings or campgrounds to refer to a place where food is prepared and cooked. It often implies a simple or temporary structure. The soldiers gathered in the cookhouse for their morning meal. The scout group set up a cookhouse near the river.
kitchen	The place in a home, restaurant, or other establishment where food is prepared and cooked. It is the most commonly used term for a domestic or professional cooking area. She loves spending time in her kitchen, baking cookies. The restaurant's kitchen was buzzing with activity.
mess hall	Often used in military settings, ships, and institutions to refer to a large room where meals are eaten, typically used by members of the military or a large group. The cadets lined up for dinner in the mess hall. During the storm, everyone gathered in the ship's mess hall.
canteen	Refers to a place within a school, hospital, workplace, or factory where food and drinks are sold or served. It can also refer to a portable water container, especially in military contexts. The employees often visit the canteen during their lunch break. She filled her canteen with water before hiking.

Examples of usage

The soldiers gathered in the cookhouse for their meals.
The cookhouse was busy with activity as the chefs prepared dinner for the crew.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

Many indigenous tribes have traditional cookhouses, often central to community gatherings and ceremonies.
In modern times, cookhouses can be seen in places like summer camps, where friends and families come together to cook and eat.
Some restaurants use open cookhouses as part of their interior design, allowing customers to see their food being prepared.

Social Context

Cookhouses serve as social hubs, fostering relationships through shared culinary experiences and group meals.
They often represent team-building opportunities in workplaces, where employees gather to share lunch or dinner.
In educational settings, cookhouses can be places for cooking classes, teaching nutritional skills and food safety.

Nutrition

Cookhouses enable the preparation of meals that can cater to specific dietary needs, promoting healthy eating habits.
In areas with food insecurity, cookhouses can provide necessary meals for communities, focusing on using available local ingredients.
Cooking together in communal spaces can encourage individuals to try new foods and recipes, improving overall diet diversity.

Art & Literature

Cookhouses often appear in literature and films as gathering places, symbolizing warmth and home.
Many artists draw inspiration from the lively atmosphere of cookhouses, capturing the joy of communal cooking in their works.
In cooking shows, the idea of a cookhouse is central, showcasing contestants cooking in shared environments under pressure.

Origin of 'cookhouse'

Main points about word origin

The term 'cookhouse' combines 'cook' (someone who makes food) and 'house' (a place to live or work).
Historically, 'cookhouses' were common in military and camp settings, providing meals for troops and workers.
In some cultures, the idea of a communal cookhouse promotes sharing and hospitality, creating bonds over meals.

The term 'cookhouse' originated in the early 19th century, combining 'cook' with 'house' to refer to a dedicated space for cooking. It was commonly used in military and logging contexts where communal meals were prepared for a group of people.