masa

noun

ma·​sa ˈmä-sə 

: a dough used in Mexican cuisine (as for tortillas and tamales) that is made from ground corn soaked in a lime and water solution

also : masa harina

Examples of masa in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Its power comes from the base material underpinning the menu – masa, lovingly made by owner and chef Emmanuel Galvan. — John Metcalfe, Mercury News, 28 July 2026

Multiple generations will form an assembly line, with some spreading the masa on prepared corn husks, some adding the meat, and some folding and tying the tamales. — Libby Monteith Minor, Southern Living, 25 July 2026

The resulting fresh masa (dough) produces tortillas with a sweeter, more pronounced corn flavor and a tender, flexible texture. — Sam Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 July 2026

The menu consists of shareable small plates that celebrate the depth, versatility, and heritage of masa. — Jonathan Shikes, Denver Post, 7 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, mash, dough

First Known Use

circa 1896, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing masa

• masa harina

Rhymes for masa

• casa
• fossa
• ossa
• manasseh

Kids Definition

masa

noun

ma·​sa ˈmä-sə 

: a dough used in Mexican cuisine (as for tortillas and tamales) that is made from ground corn soaked in a lime and water solution

also : masa harina