fork-tender

adjective

fork-ten·​der ˈfȯrk-ˈten-dər How to pronounce fork-tender (audio)
: tender enough to be easily pierced or cut with a fork
fork-tender filet mignon

Examples of fork-tender in a Sentence

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.
Cover and bake until fork-tender, 3 to 4 hours. Katlyn Moncada, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Dec. 2025 Reduce the heat to medium, cover the pan and simmer for 30 more minutes, until beef is fork-tender, adding more broth if desired for a thinner consistency. Robin Miller, AZCentral.com, 11 Dec. 2025 Cover Dutch oven and bake in preheated oven until beef is fork-tender, 3 to 4 hours. Renu Dhar, Southern Living, 24 Nov. 2025 Bake in oven until fork-tender and soft, about 1 hour, 45 minutes. Sabrina Weiss, PEOPLE, 17 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fork-tender

Word History

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fork-tender was in 1973

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Cite this Entry

“Fork-tender.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fork-tender. Accessed 2 Jan. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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