# cookery

/kˈʊkəɹi/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cookery
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the art or practice of preparing and cooking food. You use this word to talk about the skill of making meals or the style of a specific region's food.

For teachers: the practice or skill of preparing and cooking food. Often used to describe a specific style of food preparation or the study of culinary techniques.

## Examples

- She is taking a class to improve her Italian cookery.
- The library has an extensive collection of books on traditional French cookery and modern baking techniques.
- While professional chefs often focus on technical precision, home cookery relies more on seasonal availability and the inherited wisdom of family recipes passed down through generations.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in British English; American English typically prefers the word 'cooking'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.