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.
Transfer the pancetta to a plate lined with a paper towel. Lynda Balslev, Mercury News, 2 June 2026 This riff takes some liberties, by using a full cup of cream and either pancetta or bacon. Deputy Food Editor, Los Angeles Times, 31 May 2026 Bologna’s tagliatelle al ragù calls for minced beef and pancetta, a base of carrots, celery and onion, plus tomatoes, red wine, milk and broth. Lauren Schuster, Kansas City Star, 12 May 2026 This dish uses three cheeses—ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan—along with a flavorful, homemade tomato sauce with ground sausage and pancetta. Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 8 May 2026 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 6 Jun. 2026.

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