English Reference

Word

momo

Phoneticsmo·mo

Countable noun

Definition

n. a type of steamed or fried dumpling from Tibet and Nepal. It usually has a meat or vegetable filling and is served with a spicy sauce.

n. a traditional South Asian dumpling, typically associated with Tibetan and Nepalese cuisine, consisting of a dough wrapper filled with minced meat or vegetables. Often served with a tomato-based dipping sauce known as achar.

Examples

“We ordered a plate of vegetable momos for lunch.”

“The street vendor in Kathmandu served steaming hot momos to a long line of hungry commuters.”

“While traditionally steamed in bamboo baskets, modern variations of the momo include deep-fried and pan-seared versions that cater to diverse international palates.”

Examples

simple

“We ordered a plate of vegetable momos for lunch.”

contextual

“The street vendor in Kathmandu served steaming hot momos to a long line of hungry commuters.”

complex

“While traditionally steamed in bamboo baskets, modern variations of the momo include deep-fried and pan-seared versions that cater to diverse international palates.”

Usage

Commonly used in the plural form when referring to a serving or a meal.

Real-World Examples

“Emily, a mother in Scotland, says the trend reminds her of the "Momo Challenge", a notorious internet hoax and digital urban legend.”
BBC News 23 Aug 2026

This entry

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.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL 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: 6.0114–120
Frequency
Occasional
Level
C2 · Proficiency
Updated

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English Reference