The flat heating surface of a cooking stove, typically with burners or heating elements. Also refers to mischievous mythical creatures in folklore.
From Middle English 'hobbe', originally meaning a rustic or countryman. Later applied to household spirits, then to the flat part of a fireplace, and finally to stovetops.
The cooking meaning of 'hob' comes from the household spirits called 'hobs' who were said to help with domestic tasks - including tending the fire! This makes every modern kitchen a place where we've replaced helpful sprites with electric heating elements.
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