chorizo

noun

cho·​ri·​zo chə-ˈrē-(ˌ)zō 

-(ˌ)sō

plural chorizos

: a seasoned, coarsely ground, pork sausage

a

: a spicy or sweet ground pork sausage that is seasoned especially with smoked paprika, is used chiefly in Spanish cooking, and is typically sold dried and cured in casings

b

: a spicy ground pork sausage that is seasoned with chili powder and other spices (such as cumin or garlic), is used chiefly in Mexican cooking, and is typically sold uncooked either loose or in casings

Examples of chorizo in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Seafood lovers might continue with an entree of Manila clams with fregola, fennel and Spanish chorizo ($28). —John Metcalfe, Mercury News, 9 Mar. 2026

There’s egg and cheese, chorizo, potato, bacon, sausage or beef. —Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Mar. 2026

The crunchy encasing pairs perfectly with the melty cheese and various fillings inside, including cheese, tinga, potato and chorizo, and raja (strips of peppers and onions). —Carolyn Burt, Oc Register, 26 Feb. 2026

When the oil is shimmering, add the vegetables and chorizo and cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are warmed through and the sausage is sizzling, 6 to 8 minutes. —Kate Williams, AJC.com, 15 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Spanish

First Known Use

1802, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for chorizo

• carrizo
• mestizo