Definition

To be subjected to intense heat, often resulting in cooking or a heated situation.

Example

The meat will broil in the oven for about 20 minutes.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear them broil over that game last night?

Yeah, it was so intense! I thought they were going to start yelling at each other.

I know! It felt like they were about to broil right in front of us.

Right? I guess some people take their sports way too seriously.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A noisy argument or fight, often involving shouting and disagreement.

Example

The two friends had a broil over who would pay for dinner.

Conversation

Did you hear about the broil that happened at the party last night?

Yeah, I heard it got pretty loud and messy.

I didn't think it would turn into such a big broil over something so small.

Definition

To cook food by applying direct heat from above, usually in an oven or on a grill.

Example

I like to broil my vegetables to bring out their flavor.

Tense Forms

Conversation

What do you think I should make for dinner tonight?

How about we broil some salmon?

That sounds delicious! Should I season it first?

Root Explanation

Broil originates from Middle English 'broilen', which means to cook by direct heat. The word is derived from Old French 'brûler', meaning to burn. Thus, broil refers to cooking food by exposing it to direct heat, often resulting in a charred or browned surface.

Memory Tip

Think of cooking something by 'burning' it ('brûler') with direct heat — that's how you remember that broil means to cook by direct heat.

Visually Confused Words