Other forms: preps
In a kitchen, prep is the chopping and measuring done before cooking starts. Do the prep, prep list, an hour of prep.
The professional term is mise en place, French for putting in place, and it is the difference between a service that works and one that does not. Prep cook is the job title. Elsewhere, prep is short for preparation generally: exam prep, prep for the meeting. In British private schools, prep is homework and a prep school prepares children for the next stage. Note prep as a verb: prep the room.
1nounprepThe chopping and measuring done before cooking starts.
“The chef starts her prep at seven, chopping onions and making sauces before the lunch rush.”
2nounanythingPreparation for anything.
“I didn't do much prep for the interview, and it showed.”
prep is a preparation.