stage

Definition

An unpaid trial shift where aspiring cooks prove their worth through free labor, disguised as a 'learning opportunity.' Pronounced 'stahj' to sound more French and therefore more legitimate.

Example Usage

We have three stages coming in tomorrow, so prep extra mise—they'll be too nervous to cook anything correctly.

Origin

From French 'stagiaire,' meaning intern or trainee

Fun Fact

High-profile restaurants can have months-long waiting lists of people eager to stage for free, hoping to add the name to their resume.

Source: Professional kitchen hiring terminology

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supremed

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See “stage” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.

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