meatballs

word · lemma: meatball

/ˈmitˌbɔɫz/
/mˈiːtbɔːlz/

Definition

Small balls of ground meat, usually mixed with spices, breadcrumbs, and other ingredients, then cooked. They are often served with sauce or in pasta dishes.

Usage & Nuances

"Meatballs" usually refers to the Italian or Western style, especially in dishes like "spaghetti and meatballs." Can be made from beef, pork, chicken, or a mix. Not to be confused with cultural variants like "köfte" or "bakso," though English uses "meatballs" for those in general contexts.

Example Sentences

I made meatballs for dinner.

basic

My favorite food is spaghetti and meatballs.

basic

He put three meatballs on his plate.

basic

These meatballs are homemade—try one!

natural

Grandma always makes the best meatballs for family gatherings.

natural

Can I get an order of spaghetti with extra meatballs, please?

natural