pasta

noun

pas·​ta ˈpä-stə 

also

ˈpa- 

1

: paste in processed form (such as macaroni) or in the form of fresh dough (such as ravioli)

2

: a dish of cooked pasta

Examples of pasta in a Sentence

They ordered pasta with meat sauce.

Breads and pastas are high in carbohydrates.

Recent Examples on the Web

The menu includes the family’s signature pizzas and pasta, chicken and seafood entrees, stromboli, calzones, appetizers, soups and salads, and special lunch offerings. —Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 21 Apr. 2025

There’s plenty else to choose from, like burgers, steak, pasta, and local mushrooms. —Zoe Baillargeon, Travel + Leisure, 20 Apr. 2025

Rima, a Mediterranean grill nestled within the resort's treetops, offers succulent steaks and creative fare, including pastas and salads, complemented by a fine selection of wines and cocktails. —Livia Hengel, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025

Active Time: 1 hr Total Time: 2 hrs Servings: 12 Creamy white lasagna is filled with cheesy layers of pasta, sausage and mushrooms, a silky bechamel, and mozzarella. —Nicole Hopper, Southern Living, 17 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from Late Latin

First Known Use

1827, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing pasta

• angel-hair pasta
• pasta cooker

Rhymes for pasta

• jocasta

Kids Definition

pasta

noun

pas·​ta ˈpäs-tə 

1

: a dough of flour, eggs, and water made in different shapes and dried (as spaghetti or macaroni) or used fresh (as ravioli)

2

: a dish of cooked pasta