barbecue

Definition

A fireplace or pit for grilling food, typically used outdoors and traditionally employing hot charcoal as the heating medium.

Etymology

From mid-17th century. Borrowed from Spanish barbacoa, from Taíno barbakoa (“framework of sticks”), the raised wooden structure the natives used to either sleep on or cure meat. Originally “meal of roasted meat or fish”. Doublet of balbacua and barbacoa.

Example Sentences

• "We cooked our food on the barbecue."
• "We're having a barbecue on Saturday, and you're invited."
• "She ordered a plate of barbecue with a side of slaw."