paella

noun

pa·​el·​la pä-ˈā-yə 

-ˈāl-yə, 

-ˈe-lə, 

-ˈā-lə 

: a saffron-flavored dish containing rice, meat, seafood, and vegetables

Examples of paella in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The party had a DJ, paella lunch, and an all-white dress code. — Shelby Wax, Vogue, 11 Aug. 2026

Finally, La Lluna in Whetstone shines as an excellent local Spanish tapas spot, known for its traditional, generous dishes like paella, warm hospitality, and a charming garden, ideal for group dining. — Lela London, Forbes.com, 9 Aug. 2026

For a night on the town, my go-to spot is Spain Wine Bar, a Spanish tapas restaurant where the rooftop views and lively atmosphere set the tone for a sophisticated meal of small plates, and fresh seafood paella. — Katie Riley, Southern Living, 15 July 2026

Tapioca, Patagonia, subito, slip, cacahuète, pistache, courgetti, paella, lasagna, asticot, Tapadaka. — Lauren Collins, New Yorker, 13 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Catalan, literally, pot, pan, from Middle French paelle, from Latin patella small pan — more at patella

First Known Use

circa 1892, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for paella

• shigella

Kids Definition

paella

noun

pa·​el·​la pä-ˈel-ə  -ˈāl-yə 

-ˈā-yə

: a Spanish dish of rice, meat, seafood, vegetables, and spices