barbecue

word

/ˈbɑɹbɪkˌju/
BAR-bi-kyoo
/bˈɑːbɪkjˌuː/
BAH-bi-kyoo

Definition

A barbecue is a meal or social event where food, especially meat, is cooked outdoors over fire or hot coals. It can also mean the grill or cooking method itself.

Usage & Nuances

In everyday English, 'barbecue' can mean the event, the food, the grill, or the cooking style, so context matters. 'Have a barbecue' is very common; 'barbecue sauce' and 'barbecued chicken' are also frequent collocations. In American English, 'BBQ' is a very common informal spelling.

Example Sentences

We had a barbecue in the yard on Sunday.

basic

My dad is cleaning the barbecue before dinner.

basic

They cooked fish on the barbecue.

basic

We're having a barbecue this weekend if the weather holds up.

natural

That place does amazing barbecue, especially the ribs.

natural

Can you pick up some barbecue sauce on your way home?

natural