English Reference
noun · verb

coke

n. · v.
US /ˈkoʊk/ UK /kˈəʊk/ coke

  1. 01 A2 Elementary Informal

    n.a sweet, dark brown soda; often used for Coca-Cola or any similar drink.

    n.a carbonated, cola-flavored soft drink; frequently used as a genericized trademark for Coca-Cola.

    Simple

    Would you like a glass of coke with your burger?

    In context

    The restaurant serves various beverages, but most customers simply order a coke to accompany their meal.

    Usage

    Often capitalized as 'Coke' when referring specifically to the brand.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced SlangInformal

    n.a short name for cocaine, a powerful and illegal drug.

    n.a common slang term for cocaine, a potent stimulant drug.

    Simple

    The police arrested the man for carrying a small bag of coke.

    In context

    The documentary explored the devastating impact that the trade of coke has on local communities.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a very common slang term in media and crime fiction; learners should be aware of the context to avoid confusion with the soft drink.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    n.a grey, hard fuel made from coal, used mainly in making steel.

    n.a solid carbonaceous residue derived from the destructive distillation of low-ash, low-sulfur bituminous coal.

    Simple

    The factory uses coke to heat the furnace for making iron.

    In context

    The metallurgical process requires high-quality coke to ensure the efficient reduction of iron ore in the blast furnace.

  4. 04 C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    v.to turn coal into the hard fuel called coke.

    v.to convert coal into coke through the process of carbonization.

    Simple

    The plant was designed to coke large quantities of coal every day.

    In context

    Engineers monitored the temperature closely to ensure the coal would coke properly without excessive impurities.

    carbonize

Clipping of Coca-Cola. See coke (“cola”).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated