To marinate means to soak food, typically meat or vegetables, in a mixture of liquid and seasonings to add flavor and enhance tenderness before cooking. Full definition
It is delicious as soon as you make it, but I've found that letting in marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours intensifies the flavors and makes it even better! (wellnessmama.com)
The concept of marinating chicken in a spicy fruit juice and then char - broiling originated in Mexico and is becoming quite popular throughout the Southwest. (fieryfoodscentral.com)