Meatball: meaning, definitions and examples
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meatball
[ ˈmiːtˌbɔːl ]
food item
A meatball is a dish made from ground meat, often mixed with bread crumbs, eggs, and spices. They are typically shaped into a round ball and can be cooked by baking, frying, or simmering in sauce. Meatballs are popular in various cuisines around the world, often served with pasta, in sandwiches, or alone as an appetizer. Their texture can range from firm to tender, depending on the ingredients and cooking method used.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- We had spaghetti and meatballs for dinner.
- The chef made homemade meatballs for the special.
- Meatballs can be made from beef, pork, or chicken.
Etymology
The word 'meatball' comes from the combination of two words: 'meat,' which has Old English origins from 'mete,' and 'ball,' which is derived from the Middle English word 'balle.' The formation of ground meat into a ball shape is thought to have begun in ancient Rome, where meatballs were made from various meats and spices. As culinary traditions evolved, different cultures adapted the meatball, resulting in diverse varieties such as Italian meatballs, Swedish köttbullar, and Middle Eastern kofta. In the 19th century, the dish became popular in the United States, often associated with Italian-American cuisine, where it has maintained a significant cultural presence ever since. Today, meatballs are enjoyed worldwide and continue to be a comfort food favorite.