cookout

American  

[kook-out] / ˈkʊkˌaʊt /

Or cook-out

noun

1. a party or entertainment featuring the cooking and eating of a meal out of doors.

2. the process of cooking and eating a meal outdoors.

3. a meal cooked and eaten in the open.

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adjective

1. of, relating to, or intended for use or consumption at a cookout.

cookout British  

/ ˈkʊkˌaʊt /

noun

1. a party where a meal is cooked and eaten out of doors

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Etymology

Origin of cookout

1945–50, noun use of verb phrase cook out

Example Sentences

He met with co-workers during a cookout at the Speed Kingz office in Laurel, Md., ahead of a recent night shift.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 28, 2025

This year’s national average of $7.09 per person for a cookout, marks the second-highest cost since the survey began in 2013.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 26, 2025

But if you're having a cookout, like you said, everybody's over.

From Salon • May 30, 2024

Thinking about food safety isn’t anyone’s idea of fun, but neither is ruining memories of a fun cookout by getting sick.

From Seattle Times • May 27, 2024

She’s in charge of salads this year, the least exciting part of any cookout.

From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller

Related Words

• picnic