“Cook” is the Word: New Slang Takes Over Cypriot Reality TV & Quebec French
Posted: November 21, 2023 – 8:00 AM EST
Montreal, QC – Forget “vibe” and “flow.” A new term is dominating conversations, particularly amongst viewers of the Cypriot reality show airing on Noovo, and it’s officially entered the Quebec French lexicon – despite some resistance from language purists. The word? “Cook.” But don’t expect a recipe. This “cook” has a whole different flavor.
From Reality TV to Everyday Speech: The Rise of “Cook”
The term’s rapid ascent began within the walls of the Cypriot villa featured in the Noovo reality series. Initially, “cook” simply meant to cook, but it quickly morphed into a multi-layered slang expression. Contestants began using it to describe being “grilled” or “peppered” by other singles, a playful jab at the show’s competitive dynamics. Mathis, a 23-year-old landscaper on the show, perfectly encapsulates the trend: “Everyone cooks on everyone, they even cook me behind my back.”
But the evolution didn’t stop there. “Cook” now signifies plotting, strategizing, and even the agonizing wait for a dramatic reveal. One contestant lamented another’s failed scheme, declaring they “overcooked” it – a colorful way of saying their plan backfired spectacularly. This linguistic flexibility is a hallmark of how slang takes root and flourishes.
A Gender Shift in Slang Usage
Traditionally, the use of “cook” in this context was largely associated with men. However, the show is witnessing a fascinating shift. Women are now confidently adopting the term, breaking down traditional linguistic barriers. Mathis himself observed, “Cindy started cooking, and I am the kitchen assistant,” a playful acknowledgement of changing dynamics and a nod towards shared responsibility.
“Tabarnak!” and Too Many Cooks: Quebec’s Influence
The slang’s journey isn’t limited to Cyprus. Pilot Maxime, 28, playfully exclaimed, “For girls who don’t cook, they cook in tabarnak!” – a clear homage to the iconic 1988 Sherbrooke group, Too Many Cooks. This demonstrates how the Cypriot show is resonating with, and being reinterpreted by, a Quebecois audience, adding layers of cultural context.
Beyond the Kitchen: “Cook” as a Multifaceted Expression
The versatility of “cook” extends beyond interpersonal drama. It’s used to express expectations (“I don’t want you to give me anything raw”), dismiss concerns (“I am RAF” – an acronym for “nothing to worry about”), and even critique behavior (“You turn your guns every time”). Arnaud, a self-proclaimed “king of words and rhetoric,” embodies this expansive use of the term.
The Evergreen Nature of Slang & Language Evolution
The story of “cook” isn’t just about a fleeting reality TV trend. It’s a microcosm of how language constantly evolves, driven by cultural forces, generational shifts, and the creative energy of everyday speakers. Slang often begins as in-group jargon, but can quickly permeate mainstream culture, influencing everything from advertising to political discourse. Consider the evolution of terms like “lit,” “sus,” or even “cool” – all once niche expressions that now enjoy widespread recognition.
Linguists have long studied the phenomenon of slang, recognizing its importance as a marker of identity, a tool for social bonding, and a reflection of broader cultural changes. The rapid spread of “cook” highlights the power of social media and reality television in accelerating this process.
As the Cypriot reality show continues to unfold, and as “cook” continues to infiltrate Quebec French, it will be fascinating to observe how this linguistic phenomenon further evolves. Stay tuned to archyde.com for ongoing coverage of this and other breaking cultural trends.
