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

Trattoria on Main is slated to take over the space, bringing fresh pasta, sauces and more to the historic downtown district. —Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 20 Mar. 2026

When the pasta is done, using a sieve or large slotted spoon, scoop it directly from the cooking water into the pan with the sauce. —Demi Lovato, Bon Appetit Magazine, 20 Mar. 2026

Slice thinly in potato and green salads, stir-fries and brothy soups, pastas and frittatas, or as a zesty topping for pizzas, burgers, or sandwiches. —Catharine Kaufman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Mar. 2026

Its menu features hand‑crafted pizzas, pastas, and seasonal specialties, paired with local beers, wines, and cocktails. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Mar. 2026

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