tapa

1 of 2

noun (1)

ta·​pa ˈtä-pə  ˈta- 

: a coarse cloth made in the Pacific islands from the pounded bark especially of the paper mulberry and usually decorated with geometric patterns

tapa

2 of 2

noun (2)

: an hors d'oeuvre served with drinks especially in Spanish bars

—usually used in plural

Examples of tapa in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Soon to open is Siro Social, a rooftop terrace offering tapas, natural wine, and cocktails (both alcoholic and non) with panoramic views of the bay and surrounding mountains. —Siobhan Reid, Travel + Leisure, 22 May 2025

While a tapa is often a single food like jamón or garlic shrimp, a pintxo is a more elaborate culinary creation. —Harmeet Kaur, CNN Money, 18 May 2025

Between sips, savor hearty traditional dishes, inventive tapas, artisanal cheeses, mouthwatering sweets—whether in an intimate dining room or at an elegant picnic among the vineyards. —Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 15 May 2025

Cliffside cocktails and tapas served with spectacular sunset views make Sheer Rocks a dining destination worth crossing the island for. —Carley Rojas Avila, Travel + Leisure, 3 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

Marquesan & Tahitian

Noun (2)

Spanish, literally, cover, lid, probably of Germanic origin; akin to Old English tæppa tap

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1817, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

1939, in the meaning defined above