Cooktop Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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cooktop
[ˈkʊkˌtɒp ]
Definition
in the kitchen
A cooktop is a flat cooking surface with burners or heating elements, typically built into a kitchen countertop.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cooktop |
Used in a general sense to refer to the flat surface of a stove where pots and pans are placed to cook.
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| stovetop |
Typically used in American English, referring to the top part of a kitchen stove where cooking is done.
|
| hob |
Commonly used in British English, refers to the same as 'cooktop' but specifically a segment of the stove where you place pans or cooking pots.
|
Examples of usage
- The cook was preparing dinner on the cooktop.
- She turned on the cooktop to boil water for pasta.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- Early cooktops were made from cast iron and were primarily used in wood-burning stoves in the 19th century.
- Gas cooktops became popular in the early 20th century, significantly changing home cooking practices and efficiency.
Technology
- Modern cooktops can be electric, gas, or induction, with induction technology using magnetic fields for efficiency.
- Some advanced cooktops now feature smart technology that allows users to control heat settings from mobile devices.
Culture
- In many cultures, the cooktop symbolizes home and family, where meals are prepared and shared with loved ones.
- Reality cooking shows have popularized the image of professional-grade cooktops, inspiring home chefs everywhere.
Science
- Cooktops utilize different heat transfer methods: conduction in electric models, convection in gas, and radiation in induction types.
- The choice of cooktop can affect the cooking process; for example, induction cooktops heat pans directly, making them faster and more efficient.
Origin of 'cooktop'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'cook,' referring to preparation of food, and 'top,' indicating its position on a stove.
- The first use of the word in print appeared in the early 20th century as kitchens started to modernize.
The term 'cooktop' originated in the mid-20th century as a convenient way to refer to the top surface of a stove used for cooking. It is a combination of 'cook' and 'top', indicating its function as a surface for cooking. Cooktops have evolved over the years from traditional gas burners to electric and induction models, offering a variety of options for home cooks.
See also: cook, cooked, cooker, cookhouse, cookie, cooking, cookout, cookware, overcook, overcooked, precook, precooked, uncooked, undercooked.