. 1. (Cookery) a pot with a lid which may be tightly bound to the bottom part, forming a vessel which can withstand some gas pressure from within. It is used to heat foods in water or steam to a temperature somewhat above the boiling point of water, allowing the cooking process to be accomplished more quickly than otherwise. [ PJC ]

2. Fig., a situation involving intense psychological pressure due to multiple urgent demands, as in certain job situations. [ PJC ]