Cookout Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
š„
cookout
[ĖkŹkĖaŹt ]
Definitions
summer gathering
A cookout is an outdoor event where food is cooked and served, typically during the summer months. It usually involves grilling or barbecuing various types of meat, vegetables, and other dishes. Cookouts are popular social gatherings that bring people together to enjoy good food and company.
Synonyms
barbecue, grill party.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cookout |
Used generally for informal outdoor cooking events, often involving family or friends. It's a casual setting where food is grilled outdoors.
|
| barbecue |
Usually refers to both the event and the method of cooking, which involves slow-cooking meat over a low flame and often includes a social gathering. It can be both casual and more formal.
|
| grill party |
Refers specifically to a social gathering where food is cooked on a grill. This is often less formal than a barbecue and focuses more on the event than the cooking method.
|
Examples of usage
- We're having a cookout this weekend to celebrate the end of summer.
- I love the smell of burgers and hot dogs on the grill at a cookout.
prepare food outdoors
To cookout means to prepare food outdoors, usually over an open flame or grill. It is a popular cooking method during the summer months when people enjoy the experience of cooking and eating outside.
Synonyms
barbecue, grill.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cookout |
Event usually held outdoors where food is cooked over an open flame or grill, often in a casual and social setting.
|
| grill |
The act or method of cooking food over direct heat on a metal grate, as well as the device used for this purpose. Can also refer to an event where this cooking method is used, but less commonly than 'cookout' or 'barbecue'.
|
| barbecue |
A social gathering where food, especially meat, is cooked slowly on a grill and typically flavored with a specific type of smoky, sweet, or tangy sauce.
|
Examples of usage
- We decided to cookout in the backyard instead of cooking indoors.
- Let's cookout some burgers for dinner tonight.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Cookouts are a common tradition in America, especially on holidays like Independence Day and Labor Day.
- They often symbolize gatherings that foster community and friendships, providing a relaxed space for social interaction.
Culinary Trends
- Modern cookouts have expanded beyond traditional burgers and hot dogs to include vegetarian options like veggie burgers and grilled corn.
- Food safety practices have become crucial during cookouts, emphasizing proper handling of raw and cooked meats to prevent illness.
Environmental Impact
- Many people are shifting to eco-friendly practices during cookouts, such as using sustainable grilling methods and biodegradable utensils.
- Local sourcing of ingredients is becoming more popular, reducing carbon footprints associated with long-distance food transport.
Pop Culture
- Cookouts are frequently depicted in movies and television shows as settings for family bonding and character interactions.
- Music and games are often part of cookouts, with backyard gatherings showcasing local musicians or friendly sports competitions.
Origin of 'cookout'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'cookout' combines 'cook' (to prepare food) and 'out' (outside), highlighting its outdoor nature.
- It emerged in American English in the early 20th century, reflecting the popularity of grilling during summer.
The term 'cookout' originated in the United States in the early 20th century, derived from the combination of 'cook' and 'out'. It became popular as a way to describe outdoor gatherings where food is prepared and enjoyed. Cookouts have since become a staple of American culture, especially during the summer months.
See also: cook, cooked, cooker, cookhouse, cookie, cooking, cooktop, cookware, overcook, overcooked, precook, precooked, uncooked, undercooked.