orecchiette

noun

orec·​chi·​et·​te ō-ˌrā-kē-ˈe-tā How to pronounce orecchiette (audio)
: small oval pasta

Examples of orecchiette in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The orecchiette is al dente and has a nice chew to it, while its scoop-like shape holds up the sauce and bits of sausage. — Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 9 Mar. 2025 After 4 minutes add the orecchiette and the asparagus, give it another stir. — Philip Potempa, Chicago Tribune, 20 Mar. 2026 La Macchia was shaping orecchiette pasta by hand (orecchiette translates into little ear, a reference to the shape of the pasta). — Bahar Anooshahr, The Arizona Republic, 30 Sep. 2024 Other choices include orecchiette with sausage, broccoli rabe, Fresno chili and Parmigiano and pappardelle verde with veal Bolognese, a white Bolognese sauce. — Connie Ogle, Miami Herald, 18 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for orecchiette

Word History

Etymology

Italian, plural of orecchietta, diminutive of orecchia ear, from Latin auricula — more at auricle

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of orecchiette was in 1973

Rhymes for orecchiette

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Browse Nearby Words

Örebro
orecchiette
Orectolobidae
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Cite this Entry

“Orecchiette.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/orecchiette. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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