What is the idiomatic meaning of cooking?

The idiomatic meaning of "cooking" can vary depending on the context, but it usually refers to:

1. Being in a difficult or dangerous situation:

* Example: "Things are really cooking in the office right now, with the boss breathing down our necks."

2. Making progress or moving quickly:

* Example: "The deal is cooking; we just need the final signature."

3. Being under a lot of pressure or stress:

* Example: "I'm really cooking under pressure to finish this project by Friday."

4. Creating excitement or enthusiasm:

* Example: "The new band is really cooking; the crowd is going wild!"

5. To be under the influence of drugs or alcohol:

* Example: "He was really cooking after that bottle of wine." (This usage is more informal and can be considered slang.)

Other related idioms:

* "Cook the books": To falsify financial records.

* "Cook up a story": To invent a false story.

* "Cook someone's goose": To ruin someone's plans or chances.

It's important to consider the context of the phrase to understand the intended meaning.