In the context of the clue "Word with school or cook," the term "prep" is short for "preparatory." - "Prep school" refers to a private secondary school that prepares students for higher education. - "Prep cook" is a person who assists in preparing food in a restaurant or kitchen. Overall, "prep" generally refers to the act of preparing or getting ready for something.
Note: The provided meaning of the answer is for the latest New York Times crossword puzzle clue: Word with school or cook. Explanations are generated by AI and may be inaccurate.