verb / noun
bake
BAYK/beɪk/
To cook or harden something by sustained dry heat.
The man bakes bread rolls until golden, then pulls the tray from the oven.
Etymology
Old English bacan already described cooking by dry heat, either in an enclosed place or on a heated surface. The modern oven sense preserves that older cooking method.
In context
My croissants are ready to pop into the oven. 425, but the moment you close the door, reduce to 375. And you'll bake them for 15 to 20 minutes or until they're a deep golden brown.
More examples
- The sun baked the wet ground until it cracked.
- A cheesy potato bake warmed the family after the long walk.
- Neighbors gathered for a clam bake on the beach.
Forms
bake · bakes · baked · baking
baker noun — A person who makes bread or pastries.
Similar words
- roast
- Often means cooking uncovered food until its exterior browns.
- harden
- Describes the result without specifying sustained dry heat.