I. ōˈgrät ə n, ȯˈ-, -rat- adjective
Etymology: French, literally, with the burnt particles left on the bottom of the pan
: browned under a flame or in a hot oven ; specifically : covered with bread crumbs, butter, and cheese and then browned
potatoes au gratin
II. ōˈgrät ə n, ȯˈ-, -rat- noun
( plural au gratins )
: a container in which au gratin dishes may be cooked and served