a coined variation of
hit on all cylinders used figuratively to mean to think, operate or function well; to
use all of one's
skill,
ability, etc. Literally it refers to the
operation of an automobile engine, in which a fuel mixture is ignited consecutively in each of several chambers (called cylinders). The
action of the fuel being ignited is called hitting. The amount of cylinders an engine has varies from 2 cylinders up to some of the most powerful engines
having 10 or 12. In
order for the car engine to
run properly, each cylinder must operate as intended in
coordination with all the other cylinders. Thus, if an automobile is hitting on all cylinders, it is
running smoothly or at full
power. If the fuel in a cylinder fails to ignite and explode (
miss), the automobile will not function properly and will not
run smoothly. To
cook means to do exceedingly well or to
work or perform in the correct way and with vigor, enthusiasm, etc.