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Gnocchi: meaning, definitions and examples

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gnocchi

 

[ ˈnjɔki ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

food, Italian

Gnocchi are soft dumplings typically made from potato, flour, and eggs. They are a traditional Italian dish often served with sauce or in soup. Gnocchi are known for their tender texture and ability to absorb flavors from accompanying sauces.

Synonyms

dumplings, noodles, pasta.

Examples of usage

  • I love making gnocchi from scratch.
  • The restaurant serves delicious spinach gnocchi.
  • Gnocchi in a creamy pesto sauce is my favorite dish.

Etymology

The word 'gnocchi' originates from the Italian language, with its roots tracing back to the Latin word 'nux', meaning 'nut'. It's believed that the creation of gnocchi dates back to ancient Roman times when similar dumplings were made from flour and water. Over time, the dish evolved, particularly in the northern regions of Italy, where potatoes were introduced in the 16th century after the Columbian Exchange. The soft texture and pillowy appearance of gnocchi made it a popular comfort food. Today, gnocchi can be found in various regional variations, often incorporating ingredients like spinach, ricotta, and even pumpkin. This versatile dish has become beloved not only in Italy but also worldwide, celebrated for its delightful taste and ease of preparation.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,791, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.