behind

Definition

The essential safety word shouted in kitchens to warn staff you're passing behind them, preventing collisions with hot pans, sharp knives, or temperamental chefs. Failure to announce results in burns, spills, and existential regret.

Example Usage

Behind you, chef! Coming through with boiling stock!

Origin

Standard restaurant kitchen communication protocol, emerged from necessity in cramped, dangerous kitchen environments

Fun Fact

New kitchen staff are often tested by experienced cooks who deliberately walk behind them to see if they'll call it out—a culinary hazing ritual.

Source: Universal restaurant kitchen terminology

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