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.
Generously sprinkle both sides of the steak well with the dry rub mix. Staff, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026 There’s plenty else to choose from, like burgers, steak, pasta, and local mushrooms. Zoe Baillargeon, Travel + Leisure, 5 July 2026 Indirect grilling also plays a major role in our best way to grill steak and can be utilized when smoking food. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 July 2026 This is certainly the case for professional sports teams where the monetary stakes—and steaks—are even higher. Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 4 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 10 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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