cook off

1 of 2

verb

cooked off; cooking off; cooks off

intransitive verb

of a cartridge
: to fire as a result of overheating

cook-off

2 of 2

noun

ˈku̇k-ˌȯf How to pronounce cook-off (audio)
-ˌäf
: a cooking competition

Examples of cook off in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Verb
Adding the tequila and Triple Sec to the syrup off the heat prevents the alcohol from cooking off. — Martha Stewart, 7 Aug. 2026 If the surface of your steak is damp, the heat of the pan first has to cook off that water. — Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 15 May 2026
Noun
Whether this fall brings unseasonably warm weather or much-too-early snow, the season is still the time for pumpkin spice, fresh apples, fall leaves, pumpkin carving, food trucks, chili cook-offs and live music. — Cathy Kozlowicz, jsonline.com, 1 Sep. 2026 Fair-goers can expect thrilling new rides and exhibitions, along with traditional cook-offs and animal shows. — Sacbee.com, 16 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for cook off

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1945, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1936, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cook off was in 1936

Rhymes for cook off

See All Rhymes for cook off

Browse Nearby Words

Cook, Mount
cook off
cook-off
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cook off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cook%20off. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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