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Grill Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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grill

[ɡrɪl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

cooking

A grill is a device used for cooking food by applying heat from below.

Synonyms

barbecue, barbeque, griddle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
grill

Used when cooking food over direct heat, typically on a metal grate. Can also mean to question someone intensely.

  • We decided to grill some steaks for dinner.
  • The detective started to grill the suspect about his whereabouts on the night of the crime.
barbecue

Often refers to a social event where food is cooked outdoors on a grill, typically involving a variety of smoked or grilled meats.

  • We're hosting a barbecue this weekend; you're welcome to join.
  • Barbecue ribs are a staple of Southern cuisine.
barbeque

An alternative spelling of 'barbecue', used in the same contexts. It's less common but still recognized.

  • The family gathered for a barbeque in the backyard.
  • She prepared a delicious barbeque sauce for the chicken.
griddle

Refers to a flat cooking surface, often electric or placed over a stove, used for cooking pancakes, eggs, and other foods.

  • He made pancakes on the griddle for breakfast.
  • The griddle is perfect for cooking multiple items at once.

Examples of usage

  • I love cooking burgers on the grill in the summer.
  • We're having a barbecue, so we need to fire up the grill.
Context #2 | Verb

cooking

To grill means to cook food on a grill.

Synonyms

barbecue, broil, roast.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
grill

Used for cooking food on a grill, typically over direct heat. Often associated with outdoor cooking and can be used with both vegetables and meats.

  • We decided to grill some burgers for dinner.
  • Do you want to grill the vegetables for the salad?
barbecue

Usually refers to slow-cooking meat over indirect heat, often with a smoky flavor. Commonly associated with social gatherings or outdoor events.

  • We're having a barbecue this weekend, would you like to come?
  • He loves to barbecue ribs for family reunions.
roast

Cooking food, usually meat or vegetables, in an oven using dry heat. This method often takes longer and is used for thorough cooking.

  • We are going to roast the turkey for Thanksgiving.
  • You should roast the potatoes until they are golden and crispy.
broil

Involves cooking food directly under high heat, typically in an oven. Mostly used for quick cooking or browning the top of dishes.

  • Set the oven to broil to melt the cheese on top.
  • She likes to broil the salmon for a crispy skin.

Examples of usage

  • I prefer to grill chicken instead of frying it.
  • Let's grill some vegetables for a healthy dinner.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Arts

  • Grilling can enhance the flavor of meat due to the Maillard reaction, which creates a tasty crust when food browns.
  • Different regions have distinct styles, like BBQ in the American South or asado in Argentina, each bringing unique spices and techniques.
  • Grilling is not just for meat; vegetables, fruits, and even pizza can be grilled for added flavor and texture.

Pop Culture

  • Grilling is a popular outdoor activity in the summer, often associated with family gatherings, holidays, and celebrations.
  • Movies and TV shows often depict grills as the centerpiece of backyard parties, showcasing the social aspect of cooking together.
  • The rise of cooking shows has popularized grilling techniques, encouraging home chefs to explore outdoor cooking.

Health

  • Grilling is considered a healthier cooking method as it allows fat to drip away from the food as it cooks.
  • Marinating food before grilling can enhance flavors while helping to reduce the formation of harmful substances during cooking.
  • Adding vegetables to a grilling menu can create a balanced meal and make the cooking experience more vibrant.

Science

  • The process of grilling can produce compounds that impact flavor, aroma, and even the nutritional profile of food.
  • Heat distribution can vary based on the type of grill; charcoal retains heat longer, while gas can provide more controlled temperatures.
  • Certain woods can be used for grilling to infuse the food with different flavors, adding a scientific twist to outdoor cooking.

Origin of 'grill'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'grill' comes from the Old French word 'griller', meaning to cook on a grill or grate over an open flame.
  • In the 1500s, the term was used to describe cooking meat on a metal frame over fire, indicating its historical roots.
  • The concept of grilling has evolved through many cultures, with unique methods and tools across regions.

The word 'grill' originated from the Middle English word 'grille', which came from the Old French word 'gril', meaning 'gridiron'. The use of grills for cooking food has been traced back to ancient civilizations, where people cooked over open flames on metal grates. Over time, grills have evolved into various types and designs for outdoor and indoor cooking.

See also: grilled, grilling.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,680, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.