cocinero
“cocinero” means “cook” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
cook, chef
📝 In Action
El cocinero de este restaurante es famoso por sus postres.
A1The chef at this restaurant is famous for his desserts.
Mi tío Juan es un cocinero aficionado, siempre hace barbacoas geniales.
A2My Uncle Juan is an amateur cook; he always makes great barbecues.
cooking
Also: culinary
📝 In Action
Necesitamos comprar un nuevo equipo cocinero.
B1We need to buy new cooking equipment.
El reto cocinero de esta semana es preparar un plato regional.
B2This week's culinary challenge is to prepare a regional dish.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: cocinero
Question 1 of 2
Which of these sentences correctly uses the feminine form of the word?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word 'cocinero' comes from the Spanish verb 'cocinar' (to cook), which itself traces back to the Late Latin word *coquinare*. This Latin root is related to the word for the person who cooks, *coquus*.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'cocinero' and 'chef'?
Both words mean 'cook' or 'chef'. 'Cocinero' is the native Spanish word. 'Chef' is a French loanword often used in Spanish, usually to refer to the head cook or someone with higher professional status, but 'cocinero' is perfectly acceptable in all contexts.
How do I say 'female cook'?
Simply change the ending 'o' to 'a': 'cocinera'. The word for the kitchen, 'cocina', is also feminine.