rigatoni

noun

rig·​a·​to·​ni ˌri-gə-ˈtō-nē How to pronounce rigatoni (audio)
: pasta made in short wide fluted tubes

Examples of rigatoni 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 $45 dinner comprises a Caesar salad, spicy rigatoni pasta, a wheat focaccia bread with salsa verde and a sparkling wine. Carlos Rico, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Jan. 2026 The broth is rich and tomato-forward, balanced by garlic, basil, and a gentle kick of red pepper, while the rigatoni gives it that pasta-night satisfaction. Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 4 Jan. 2026 Don't miss the rigatoni with shredded blue crab in sauce americaine (a Parisian lobster sauce) that's tossed with buttery Brussels sprouts and preserved lemon zest. Keith Pandolfi, Cincinnati Enquirer, 3 Dec. 2025 Pasta will also be available, like lobster spaghetti in bisque and spicy rigatoni with Calabrian chili. Brock Keeling, Oc Register, 25 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rigatoni

Word History

Etymology

Italian, plural, from rigato furrowed, fluted, from past participle of rigare to furrow, flute, from riga line, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German rīga line — more at row

First Known Use

circa 1923, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rigatoni was circa 1923

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Cite this Entry

“Rigatoni.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rigatoni. Accessed 18 Jan. 2026.

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