let him cook

L

let him (or her) cook (idiom)
/lɛt hɪm kʊk/

Meaning

• Allowing someone to proceed with their actions, especially when they are performing well or have potential, without interference.
• Encouraging others to continue their efforts, even if their approach seems unconventional or the outcome is uncertain.
• Permitting someone to continue their current course, anticipating that their actions will lead to a positive or interesting result.
• Allowing someone to continue speaking or acting, especially when they are about to say or do something significant or impressive.

Example Sentences

1. Despite initial doubts about his unconventional strategy, the coach decided to let him cook, resulting in a surprising victory.
2. Observing her innovative approach to the project, her manager chose to let her cook, leading to impressive outcomes.
3. When the comedian started improvising, the audience was eager to let him cook, anticipating more laughter.
4. Noticing his unique method of solving the problem, his colleagues agreed to let him cook and awaited the results.
5. During the brainstorming session, the team decided to let her cook, allowing creative ideas to flow freely.
6. The coach decided to let them cook, trusting their strategy would lead to victory.

Origin and History

The phrase “let him cook” traces its roots back to the early 2010s, particularly within the hip-hop community. Rapper Lil B, also known as “The BasedGod,” is credited with popularizing the expression. In a 2010 YouTube video, Lil B introduced the concept of “cooking” as a metaphor for taking one’s time and caring deeply about their craft. He emphasized that to “cook” means to engage passionately in one’s work, encouraging others to allow individuals the freedom to express themselves without interruption.

Integration into Sports Culture

The phrase gained further traction in sports, notably in the NBA. Star player James Harden adopted a “cooking” celebration during games, mimicking the act of stirring a pot after successful plays. This gesture symbolized his confidence and skill on the court. Fans and commentators began using “let him cook” to describe Harden’s dominant performances, further embedding the phrase into popular culture.

Evolution in Online Communities

As social media platforms flourished, “let him cook” evolved into a versatile meme. Online communities adopted the phrase to encourage individuals to continue their actions, especially when anticipating impressive or entertaining outcomes. The meme often features images or GIFs of characters being held back, accompanied by captions like “hold up… let him cook,” emphasizing the anticipation of witnessing something remarkable.

Contemporary Usage

Today, “let him cook” is widely used across various contexts to suggest allowing someone the freedom to proceed with their actions, particularly when their approach is unconventional or the outcome is uncertain. The phrase embodies a sense of trust in an individual’s potential to achieve noteworthy results when given the space to operate without interference.

Earliest Recorded Usage

While the exact first appearance of “let him cook” in print is challenging to pinpoint, its association with Lil B’s 2010 video provides a clear starting point for its popularization. The phrase’s journey from a niche expression within the hip-hop community to a mainstream idiom highlights the dynamic nature of language and cultural exchange.

Variants

• let him cook
• let her cook
• let that boy cook
• let that girl cook
• let them cook

Success