burgoo

[ bur-goo, bur-goo ]

noun

, plural bur·goos

1. a thick oatmeal gruel, especially as eaten by sailors.
2. Chiefly Kentucky and Tennessee.
   1. a thick, highly seasoned soup or stew, usually made of chicken or small game and corn, tomatoes, and onions.
   2. a picnic or other gathering at which burgoo is served.

burgoo

/ bɜːˈɡuː; ˈbɜːɡuː /

noun

1. slang.
   nautical porridge
2. 1. a thick highly seasoned soup or stew of meat and vegetables
   2. a picnic or gathering at which such soup is served

Word History and Origins

Origin of burgoo¹

1735–45; perhaps ultimately < Arabic burghul, burghūl cracked wheat ( bulgur ), though immediate source is uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of burgoo¹

C18: perhaps from Arabic burghul crushed grain

Example Sentences

We was off Minot's Ledge wid a northeaster, butt first, atop of us, thicker'n burgoo.

From Project Gutenberg

Weve brought lots of lunch, and Im sure there is enough of Percys burgoo, or whatever it is, to feed a regiment.

From Project Gutenberg

The burgoo or oatmeal gruel served at breakfast made him sick; he knew how it had been made in the cook's dirty pans.

From Project Gutenberg

All Kentuckians will vow they understand the true meaning of the word "burgoo."

From Project Gutenberg

When the burgoo is done dip it out and drink it from tin cups.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• gruel
• oatmeal
• polenta