Definition

To prepare food by heating it for too long or at too high a temperature, causing it to become dry or burnt.

Example

If you overcook the pasta, it will become mushy and lose its flavor.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I think I might have overcooked the pasta again.

Oh no! How long did you leave it on the stove?

Just a few minutes too long, I guess.

That happens! Maybe set a timer next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Overcook → It is formed from "over-" (meaning excessively) and "cook" (from Old English "coc", meaning to prepare food by heating). The word "overcook" means to cook food excessively or beyond the desired level.

Memory Tip

Think of cooking food 'excessively' ('over-') — that's why overcook means to cook it too much.

Visually Confused Words