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Pizza Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pizza

[ˈpiːtsə ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

food

A dish of Italian origin consisting of a flat, round base of dough baked with a topping of tomato sauce and cheese, typically with added meat or vegetables.

Synonyms

pie, slice, za.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pizza

Use 'pizza' as the most common term to describe the dish consisting of a flat round base of dough baked with a topping of tomatoes, cheese, and various other ingredients.

  • Let's order a pizza for dinner.
  • I could eat pizza every day.
pie

The term 'pie' can sometimes refer to a pizza, especially in American English, but more often it refers to a baked dish with a pastry crust and a sweet or savory filling.

  • We had a delicious apple pie for dessert.
  • The chicken pot pie at that restaurant is amazing.
slice

Use 'slice' to refer to an individual piece of pizza. This term is useful when you want to specify a single portion rather than the whole pizza.

  • Can I have a slice of pepperoni pizza?
  • I only want a slice, not the whole pizza.
za

This is a colloquial and very informal term for pizza. It is often used in casual conversations or text messages.

  • Do you want to grab some 'za after the game?
  • Let's get some 'za tonight.

Examples of usage

  • Let's order a pizza for dinner tonight.
  • I love Hawaiian pizza with pineapple and ham.
Context #2 | Noun

slang

A word used to describe a beautiful or attractive person.

Synonyms

babe, cutie, hottie.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pizza

Use this word when referring to a popular dish that consists of a flat round base of dough baked with a topping of tomatoes and cheese, typically with added meat, fish, or vegetables.

  • Let's order a pizza for dinner tonight.
  • I love pepperoni pizza the most.
hottie

This word is typically used to describe someone who is physically very attractive. It has a more explicitly suggestive tone and can sometimes be seen as objectifying.

  • That guy over there is such a hottie.
  • She got all the attention at the party because she's a hottie.
babe

This term is often used as an affectionate term for a partner or close friend. It can be somewhat informal and implies a close relationship.

  • Hey babe, how was your day?
  • Babe, can you help me with this?
cutie

Use this word to refer to someone who is charming or attractive in a sweet or endearing way. It's often used for children, pets, or in a playful context.

  • Aw, look at that cutie over there!
  • You're such a cutie when you smile.

Examples of usage

  • Wow, she's a pizza!
  • He's a real pizza, isn't he?

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The modern pizza we know today originated in Naples, Italy, in the late 18th century.
  • Before the topping of tomatoes, early pizzas were made with bread and olive oil as a simple meal.
  • The Margherita pizza was created in 1889 to honor Queen Margherita of Savoy, showcasing the colors of the Italian flag with basil, mozzarella, and tomato.

Cultural Impact

  • In the United States, pizza became a popular food after World War II, when soldiers returned home craving the flavors they experienced in Italy.
  • National Pizza Day is celebrated every February 9th in the U.S., dedicating a day to enjoy this favorite meal.
  • The pizza industry is worth billions globally, with many unique styles like Chicago deep-dish and New York thin crust.

Science

  • Pizza’s cheese contains casein, a protein that can lead to feelings of happiness, often causing people to enjoy it even more!
  • The Maillard reaction occurs when pizza is baked, giving it that delicious crust and distinct flavors we love.
  • Pizza can be high in calories, and making healthier choices with toppings or crust can balance nutrition.

Art and Literature

  • Pizza has inspired numerous works of art, from classic paintings reflecting communal dining to modern art focused on food culture.
  • In literature, pizza often symbolizes comfort and home, appearing in popular novels and stories as a shared meal among characters.
  • Many filmmakers have included pizza as a central theme, showcasing its role in gatherings and relationships, from quirky comedies to heartfelt dramas.

Global Variations

  • In Japan, pizza can have unique toppings such as squid and mayonnaise, reflecting local tastes and preferences.
  • Brazilian pizza often features sweet desserts as toppings, like chocolate or banana, showcasing a different flavor profile.
  • In India, pizzas can include spicy toppings like paneer and tandoori chicken, adapting to cultural preferences for flavor.

Origin of 'pizza'

The word 'pizza' originated from Italian, with the first recorded use in 997 AD in Gaeta, Italy. It is believed to have been derived from the Latin word 'picea', meaning 'blackening of crust by fire'. Pizza gained popularity in the United States after World War II when American soldiers returning from Italy craved the dish, leading to the establishment of pizzerias across the country.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,171, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.