English Reference
Noun

meatball

n. countable
C1 Advanced US /ˈmitˌbɔɫ/ UK /mˈiːtbɔːl/ meat·ball UK spelling meatballs

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.


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.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated