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What does Cookout mean? If you live in the Southern United States, it is important to know the meaning of this phrase because if you were thinking it meant the same thing as a barbecue then you would be incorrect. Below you will find the most accepted meaning of this slang term in all forms of communication, as well as some information about its origin and some other meanings if there are any to be found.
Conversation examples are given here in addition to this information so you can see how to properly use this phrase in the context of a normal conversation and hopefully gain a better understanding of this term’s definition. Lastly, you will discover some words or phrases that you can use in place of this term that will not change the meaning of the original term.
“Cookout” Meaning, Origin and Usage
Key Takeaways
The term “cookout” is used most commonly on the internet and in text messaging to refer to a meal that is cooked outside, generally on a BBQ grill, that happens at someone’s home or in a public park. Generally, this event is attended by a group of people that consist of family and friends. In the northern United States, this is often referred to as a BBQ. However, this term is most widely used in the south. A barbecue in the southern states refers to a meal that is often much larger and much more complex in terms of food preparation.
Cookout Meaning
In slang, “cookout” refers to a social gathering, typically outdoors, where food (especially barbecue) is prepared and enjoyed. It often involves grilling meats like burgers, hot dogs, and ribs, along with side dishes like salads, corn, and desserts.
In cultural contexts, particularly in African American communities, a “cookout” can hold a deeper meaning, symbolizing community, family, and togetherness. It’s more than just food; it’s about bonding, music, laughter, and shared experiences.
Origin of Cookout
Although the exact origin is unknown regarding its first usage, the term originated in the southern states of the US as a means to tell a barbecue and this type of meal apart. In the south a barbecue means a whole different type of meal. Although barbecue is used in the West, Midwest, and the North to refer to the same type of meal as this slang term denotes, this term was necessary to tell the two apart in the South and thus this slang term was born. It is a simple compound word combining the words “cook” meaning to prepare and heat food and “out” referring to the outside.
Usage of this Term
1. Traditional Outdoor Gathering
- Context: Referring to a casual social event with grilling and outdoor activities.
- Example: “We’re hosting a cookout this weekend at the park.”
- Meaning: A barbecue-style outdoor gathering with food and fun.
2. Cultural or Community Celebration
- Context: Highlighting the importance of bonding, family, and tradition in a specific community.
- Example: “The annual neighborhood cookout is the best time to catch up with everyone.”
- Meaning: A cultural or community event where people gather to connect and celebrate.
3. Symbol of Inclusion
- Context: Referring to someone being welcomed or accepted into a group or community.
- Example: “After that speech, she’s definitely invited to the cookout.”
- Meaning: Gaining approval or being embraced by a group, often used metaphorically.
4. Lighthearted Critique
- Context: When someone does something questionable that might jeopardize their “invitation.”
- Example: “Messing up the macaroni salad is a good way to get uninvited from the cookout!”
- Meaning: A playful way to comment on actions that don’t align with group norms or traditions.
5. Music or Party Atmosphere
- Context: Referring to a fun and relaxed vibe, often involving music, dancing, and good food.
- Example: “This playlist is perfect for a summer cookout.”
- Meaning: Capturing the mood or vibe of a lively, enjoyable outdoor gathering.
Related Terms to “Cookout”
- Barbecue (BBQ) – A gathering where food is cooked on a grill, often synonymous with a cookout but more focused on the grilling itself.
- Grill Out – Refers to cooking food on a grill, typically outdoors, often used interchangeably with cookout.
- Potluck – A social gathering where attendees bring and share different dishes.
- Picnic – A casual outdoor meal, usually involving packed food, often in a park or scenic location.
- Block Party – A community event held outdoors, often involving food, games, and music, like an expanded cookout.
- Tailgate – A gathering in a parking lot before a sports event, involving grilling and socializing from the back of vehicles.
- Lū‘au – A traditional Hawaiian feast, involving grilled or roasted food, music, and dancing, similar in spirit to a cookout.
- Bonfire Party – An outdoor event involving a fire, sometimes paired with grilling or casual cooking.
- Clambake – A coastal gathering where seafood is cooked, often outdoors, and served as part of the event.
- Backyard Bash – A casual outdoor party, often in someone’s backyard, featuring food, drinks, and entertainment.
Other Ways to Say the Term
There are some words and phrases that you can use to replace this term depending on the context that it is used in originally. Some words or phrases that you could use instead include:
- barbecue
- outside meal
- outside party
“Cookout” Examples
Sentence Examples
- “We’re planning a family cookout this weekend to celebrate my dad’s birthday.”
- “She brought her famous potato salad to the neighborhood cookout.”
- “After his hilarious performance, everyone agreed he was invited to the cookout.”
- “The weather is perfect for a backyard cookout this afternoon.”
- “Don’t forget to grab the charcoal and hot dogs for the cookout tonight.”
- “Every summer, the community organizes a huge cookout at the park.”
- “Messing up the ribs is a surefire way to get kicked out of the cookout!”
Conversation Examples
A conversation between two friends via text message.
- Friend 1: Are you going to Mike’s cookout on the 25th?
- Friend 2: Yes! I wouldn’t miss it!
- Friend 1: Me neither! I will see you there then. It will be nice to have a get together to unwind before school starts again.
An online discussion between two Twitter users.
- User 1: My family and I are having a cookout today! Do any of my friends want to come over for some hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill and maybe take a dip in the pool?
- User 2: I do! I have nothing to do and your dad can cook some bomb food on that grill! What time should I be there?
- User 1: You can come over whenever you want! It’s an all day thing! I will see you soon!
- User 2: Okay that sounds awesome! I will call Joanne and see if she wants to come as well!
- User 1: Great!
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