Kitchen, pronounced as /ˈkɪtʃən/, is a noun that refers to a room or an area that is specifically designed for cooking and food preparation. The spelling of "kitchen" is derived from the Middle English word "kychene" which means "a place for cooking". The initial "k" sound in the word is pronounced aspirated /k/, followed by a short "i" sound - /ɪ/. Then, there is a "tʃ" sound - /tʃ/ and a short "e" sound - /ən/. The word "kitchen" is spelled as it's pronounced in English.
A kitchen is a dedicated space within a house, apartment, or commercial establishment, primarily used for food preparation and cooking. It is typically equipped with various utilities and appliances such as stoves, ovens, refrigerators, sinks, and cabinets, along with necessary accessories like utensils, cookware, and cutlery.
Functioning as the heart of a household, the kitchen serves as a central hub for culinary activities and often doubles as a communal gathering place. It is where meals and beverages are prepared, and where ingredients are stored, organized, and transformed into dishes. The modern kitchen is designed to optimize efficiency, providing ample counter space for meal preparation and storage areas for food and cookware.
The layout and design of a kitchen may vary depending on cultural preferences, available resources, and personal requirements. Some kitchens are small and compact, while others are more spacious and elaborate. Beside functionality, aesthetics also play a significant role in kitchen design, with an emphasis on creating a welcoming and pleasant environment.
In addition to their domestic role, kitchens can also be found in restaurants, hotels, cafeterias, and various other commercial establishments where food is prepared and served. These professional kitchens are typically larger in scale and equipped with specialized appliances, ventilation systems, and safety measures to meet the demands of high-volume cooking and food service operations.
The room in a house where the food is cooked.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "kitchen" originated from the Old English word "cycene", which in turn came from the West Germanic word "kokina". This word is believed to have been borrowed from the Latin word "coquina", which means "cooking place" or "kitchen". Latin "coquina" itself derived from "coquere", which means "to cook". Therefore, the etymology of "kitchen" traces back to Latin origins, reflecting its close connection to the act of cooking.