pitmaster

American  

[pit-mas-ter] / ˈpɪtˌmæs tər /

noun

1. the chief cook at a barbecue where the meat is roasted in a barbecue pit.

   Come for beef brisket, shoulder, and ribs cooked low and slow by famous pitmaster Judith.

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Etymology

Origin of pitmaster

First recorded in 1980–85; pit ¹ ( def. ) + master ( def. )

Example Sentences

“We weren’t always known for barbecue,” said Randy Pauly, an award-winning pitmaster and the director of barbecue operations at Buc-ee’s.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 6, 2026

She also was a nurse for a BBQ pitmaster turned OB-GYN named Fat Daddy.

From Los Angeles Times • May 5, 2024

Texas barbecue is unique and sacred: Every pitmaster and amateur barbecuer has their own wood blend, dry rubs and perfected cooking methods.

From Seattle Times • May 24, 2022

Just unleash your inner pitmaster and rest easy knowing that while you sleep, a giant cut of bone-in, skin-on pork shoulder is transforming into the sweetest, most succulent showstopper you've ever tasted.

From Salon • Feb. 12, 2022

The final piece fell into place when he overheard an animal trainer complaining loudly to the pitmaster.

From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin