masala

noun

ma·​sa·​la mä-ˈsä-lä How to pronounce masala (audio)
-lə
mə-
: a varying blend of spices used in Indian cooking

Examples of masala in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While pumpkin pie spice tends to be very cinnamon-forward, cinnamon takes more of a back seat in Spicewalla’s chai masala, which packs more heat than pumpkin spice thanks to the pepper and cloves included in the mix. Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 13 Nov. 2025 Chicken tikka masala is on the menu, alongside lamb chops, butter chicken, garlic naan and other traditional Indian dishes. Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 7 Nov. 2025 Chai masala connoisseurs assemble! Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 3 Nov. 2025 With combinations like blooming rose black tea and sweet cinnamon masala chai tea, you are bound to find your favorite flavor in this calendar. Molly Blanco, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for masala

Word History

Etymology

Hindi & Urdu masālā materials, ingredients, spices

First Known Use

1780, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of masala was in 1780

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Cite this Entry

“Masala.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/masala. Accessed 15 Nov. 2025.

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