plural steaks
1
a
: a slice of meat cut from a fleshy part of a beef carcass
b
: a similar slice of a specified meat other than beef
ham steak
c
: a cross-section slice of a large fish
swordfish steak
d
: a thick slice or piece of a non-meat food especially when prepared or served in the manner of a beef steak
tofu/portobello steaks
a cauliflower steak
2
a
: ground beef prepared for cooking or for serving in the manner of a steak
hamburger steak
b
: a non-meat food formed into a patty and cooked
lentil steak
wild mushroom steak

Examples of steak in a Sentence

I grilled a steak for dinner. We had steak and potatoes for dinner.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Lightly coat the steaks on both sides with oil and season evenly with salt and black pepper. Lynda Balslev, Mercury News, 14 July 2026 That impressive steak, seasoned just right to enhance the natural flavors of the wagyu beef, is just one reason to visit Enzo Steakhouse at Trilith in Fayetteville. Justin Brown, AJC.com, 12 July 2026 Devin said her steak and eggs, cooked before the sun is up, are perfect. Spencer Nusbaum, New York Times, 10 July 2026 While the view and location is fantastic, the food is equally impressive with a choice of some of the best steaks in town from the delicious filet to the juicy sirloin. Joanne Shurvell, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for steak

Word History

Etymology

Middle English steke, from Old Norse steik; akin to Old Norse steikja to roast on a stake, stik stick, stake — more at stick

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of steak was in the 15th century

Cite this Entry

“Steak.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/steak. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

1
: a slice of meat and especially beef
2
: a slice of a large fish (as swordfish)

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