Cooking oil, also known as edible oil, is a liquid fat, primarily derived from plants, animals, or microbial sources, that is used in cooking and food preparation. It is used for frying, baking, and other cooking methods, and can also be used in food preparation and flavoring without heat, like salad dressings. Cooking oils are generally liquid at room temperature, though some, like coconut oil, can be solid at certain temperatures.