Smoked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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smoked

[sməʊkt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

cooking

To cook (food) over a fire or on a grill, often using wood chips or charcoal to enhance flavor.

Synonyms

barbecue, grill, roast.

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Word Description / Examples
smoked

Used to describe food that has been cooked slowly using smoke from burning wood or charcoal. It often imparts a deep, rich, smoky flavor. Commonly used for meats like fish, ham, and sausage.

  • The salmon was smoked to perfection.
  • I prefer a smoked ham sandwich for lunch.
grill

Involves cooking food on a grill where it is exposed to direct heat, either from below or above. It is a quick method often used for burgers, steaks, and vegetables.

  • I'll grill the burgers for dinner.
  • She likes to grill vegetables for a healthy meal.
barbecue

Refers to cooking food, especially meat, on a grill or spit, often outdoors. It usually includes a special sauce or seasoning and is associated with social gatherings and parties.

  • Let's have a barbecue this weekend!
  • The ribs were slow-cooked on the barbecue.
roast

This cooking method involves cooking food in an oven or over an open fire. It typically takes longer and is used for larger pieces of meat or whole poultry like chicken and turkey.

  • The roast beef was tender and juicy.
  • We roasted a whole chicken for Sunday dinner.

Examples of usage

  • He smoked the brisket for 12 hours to achieve the perfect tenderness.
  • She smoked the salmon on a cedar plank for a smoky flavor.
  • The chef smoked the ribs using hickory wood chips.
Context #2 | Verb

tobacco

To inhale and exhale the smoke of a cigarette, pipe, or cigar.

Synonyms

inhale, puff, smolder.

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Word Description / Examples
smoked

Used when referring to the act of consuming something by burning and inhaling the fumes, usually related to tobacco or other substances.

  • He smoked a cigarette after dinner.
  • They smoked a cigar to celebrate the birth of the baby.
puff

Used to describe a single act of inhaling and exhaling smoke from a cigarette, cigar, or pipe; often associated with short, frequent breaths of smoke.

  • He took a puff from his cigar and leaned back in his chair.
  • She gave two quick puffs on the cigarette before putting it out.
inhale

Used when referring to the act of taking air, smoke, or other substances into the lungs; it does not specifically require the burned substance context.

  • She inhaled deeply before going underwater.
  • He accidentally inhaled some dust while cleaning.
smolder

Used to describe something that is burning slowly with smoke but no flame; often used metaphorically to describe suppressed emotions or tensions.

  • The campfire continued to smolder long after the flames had died down.
  • He could see the smoldering anger in her eyes.

Examples of usage

  • He smoked a cigar to celebrate his promotion.
  • She smoked a cigarette while waiting for the bus.
Context #3 | Noun

substance

A visible suspension of carbon or other particles in air, typically one emitted from a burning substance.

Synonyms

fumes, haze, vapor.

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Word Description / Examples
smoked

This word is repeated and has the same meaning as previously described.

  • Duplicate entry; see context for 'smoked' above.
fumes

Refers to strong, often unpleasant and potentially harmful gases or vapors, typically associated with something burning or chemical reactions. Often has a negative connotation.

  • The factory released toxic fumes into the air.
  • She felt dizzy because of gasoline fumes in the garage.
haze

Describes a light mist or fine particles in the air that make it hard to see clearly, often due to pollution, heat, or smoke. Can also be used metaphorically to describe confusion or vagueness.

  • The city was covered in a thick haze from the nearby forest fires.
  • He tried to remember, but everything was a haze after the accident.
vapor

Refers to a substance in the gas phase at a temperature lower than its critical temperature, usually used in science or to describe something that can be seen but quickly disperses. It is often used to talk about water vapor or e-cigarette emissions.

  • Water vapor condensed on the windows, making them fog up.

Examples of usage

  • The room was filled with smoke after the fire.
  • The factory emitted smoke into the atmosphere.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Techniques

  • Smoking has been used to preserve food for thousands of years, allowing it to last longer without spoiling.
  • Different types of wood create unique smoke flavors; for instance, hickory gives a strong taste while applewood is milder and sweeter.
  • Smoking can also add color to food; meats often turn a deep brown and develop a tempting crust when smoked correctly.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures around the world, including Native American tribes and Eastern Europeans, have traditional smoking methods for meats and fish.
  • In Southern U.S. cuisine, smoked barbecue is not just food; it's a cultural celebration often linked with community gatherings.
  • In Japan, certain fish are traditionally smoked as part of local rituals and celebrations, showcasing the deep cultural ties of this cooking method.

Environmental Effects

  • Smoking food can contribute to deeper flavors without adding preservatives, making it a favored technique for natural food enthusiasts.
  • Some studies suggest that the way foods are smoked can affect the amount of certain chemicals, altering their health benefits.
  • Industrial smoking techniques can vary widely in their impact on health and the environment compared to traditional methods.

Health Implications

  • While smoked foods can have delicious flavors, it's important to consume them in moderation due to potential health risks linked to certain compounds formed during smoking.
  • Some types of smoked foods may contain higher levels of certain harmful substances, which can lead to health issues if eaten too often.
  • Certain studies highlight that smoking can enhance the flavor without significantly increasing calorie content, appealing to those mindful of diet.

Science of Flavor

  • The process of smoking changes the chemistry of the food, creating new compounds that can enhance flavor, aroma, and texture.
  • Smoke contains hundreds of flavor compounds, some of which can react with the food and create complex flavors enjoyed by many.
  • The Maillard reaction, or browning process, is often intensified by smoking, leading to richer taste experiences.

Origin of 'smoked'

The word 'smoked' originated from the Old English verb 'smocian', which meant 'to emit smoke'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the cooking method of using smoke to flavor or preserve food. Smoking as a culinary technique has been practiced for centuries, with various cultures developing unique methods to enhance the taste of meat, fish, and other foods. In the context of tobacco, 'smoked' refers to the act of inhaling and exhaling the smoke produced by burning tobacco leaves, a practice that dates back to ancient civilizations. The word continues to be used in both culinary and smoking contexts today.


See also: smog, smoke, smokescreen, smoking, smoky.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,712 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.