Word
meatball
Phoneticsmeat·ball, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈmitˌbɔɫ/
UK/mˈiːtbɔːl/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a small ball of ground meat, usually beef or pork, that is cooked by frying or boiling. It is a common part of many different cuisines, like Italian or Swedish.
n. a small, round ball of minced meat, typically beef or pork, that is fried, boiled, or baked. Often used as a central ingredient in various global culinary traditions.
Examples
“I love eating meatballs with tomato sauce and pasta.”
“The chef prepared a large batch of meatballs for the family dinner, serving them over a bed of creamy polenta.”
“While traditionally associated with Mediterranean and Scandinavian cuisines, the meatball has become a versatile global staple, often adapted to include various spices and vegetables depending on the local culinary landscape.”
Examples
simple
“I love eating meatballs with tomato sauce and pasta.”
contextual
“The chef prepared a large batch of meatballs for the family dinner, serving them over a bed of creamy polenta.”
complex
“While traditionally associated with Mediterranean and Scandinavian cuisines, the meatball has become a versatile global staple, often adapted to include various spices and vegetables depending on the local culinary landscape.”
Real-World Examples
“Dinner: lamb meatballs with rice and a kale and butternut squash curry.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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