pancetta

noun

pan·​cet·​ta (ˌ)pan-ˈche-tə How to pronounce pancetta (audio)
: unsmoked bacon used especially in Italian cuisine

Examples of pancetta 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.
The 16-ounce prime Angus New York strip includes duck fat confit Dutch potatoes, pancetta, king trumpet mushrooms, roasted pearl onions, Shropshire blue cheese, red frill mustard and Cabernet reduction. Jessica Peralta, Oc Register, 19 Sep. 2025 Handmade pappardelle with veal ragù, pancetta and sheep’s milk ricotta; Neapolitan pepperoni pizza with vodka sauce, ricotta salata and honey; and vitello piccata with capers, lemon and spinach are three must-try dishes on the menu. Melinda Sheckells, Forbes.com, 17 Sep. 2025 This spaghetti that leans on jarred marinated artichokes and pancetta to deliver briny, salty flavor. Nina Moskowitz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 29 Aug. 2025 Sautéed Brussels sprouts and pancetta round out the dish. Katlyn Moncada, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pancetta

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from diminutive of pancia belly, paunch, from Latin pantic-, pantex

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pancetta was in 1841

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pancetta.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pancetta. Accessed 5 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!