pastry

noun

pas·​try ˈpā-strē 

plural pastries

1

a

: a dough that is used to make pies and other baked goods and typically has a high fat content : paste sense 1a

b

: usually sweet baked goods made of dough having a high fat content

a plate of tempting pastry

see also danish pastry, french pastry

2

: a piece of pastry

I had a pastry and a cup of tea.

Examples of pastry in a Sentence

He worked on the filling while I prepared the pastry.

She had a pastry and coffee for breakfast.

Recent Examples on the Web

The paddock, which used the IFEMA’s exhibition halls and outdoor space for the team hospitality units, had plenty of local food and drink offerings — including Spanish tortillas, pastries and ice creams. — Luke Smith, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026

Parisian bakers are experimenting with new pastries like the crookie, a crispy croissant with a melty chocolate chip cookie inside. — Dee-Ann Durbin, Los Angeles Times, 14 Sep. 2026

Breakfast is particularly impressive, with fresh pastries, seasonal fruit, local yoghurts, eggs cooked to order and regional cheeses and cured meats. — Vicki Power, TheWeek, 14 Sep. 2026

If donuts aren’t your jam, stop at Bobby Boy Bakeshop, a James Beard nominee that serves artisanal breads and pastries with Old World style. — Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 12 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

paste entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing pastry

• choux pastry
• Danish pastry
• French pastry
• pastry cream
• puff pastry

Kids Definition

pastry

noun

past·​ry

ˈpā-strē

plural pastries

1

: sweet baked goods (as cakes or tarts) made of dough or having a crust made of enriched dough

2

: a piece of pastry