poach

Definition

To cook (something) in simmering or very hot liquid (usually water; sometimes wine, broth, or otherwise).

Etymology

From Middle English pochen (“to poach (eggs)”), from Old French pocher "to put (egg yolks) in pockets" (i.e. in bags formed by the whites), from Old French poche (“pocket”).

Example Sentences

• "Eldridge closed the despatch-case with a snap and, rising briskly, walked down the corridor to his solitary table in the dining-car. Mulligatawny soup, poached turbot, roast leg of lamb—the usual railway dinner."
• "The white of an egg with spirit of wine, doth bake the egg into clots, as if it began to poach."