A cooking timer is a device used to measure and keep track of cooking times for various dishes. It helps ensure that food is cooked for the right amount of time, preventing overcooking or undercooking. Cooking timers can be digital or mechanical and often feature alarms that alert the user when the set time has elapsed. Many modern cooking timers come with additional features, such as multiple timers for different dishes, countdown displays, and even preset cooking times for common recipes. Some timers are integrated into kitchen appliances like ovens or microwaves, while others are standalone devices that can be easily moved around the kitchen.