pastina

noun

pas·​ti·​na ˈpä-stē-nə How to pronounce pastina (audio)
: very small bits of pasta used in soup or broth

Examples of pastina 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 wacky-brilliant pastina, perhaps even richer and zingier with saffron. — Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 14 Mar. 2026 Although slightly larger than the original pastina shape, acini di pepe still works well as a substitute. — Sam Stone, Bon Appétit, 11 Jan. 2023 Some users even tagged one of Ronzoni’s competitors, Barilla, which sells its own pastina products. — Zoe Sottile, CNN, 7 Jan. 2023 Luckily, Stanley Tucci helped bring pastina back in its iconic star format. — Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 July 2026 The food's never been better, especially Angelo’s meatballs and French fries, and a bowl of pastina from the 1924 menu. — Usa Today Network, USA Today, 20 Mar. 2026 Frattaroli is a first-generation Italian American and doesn’t have a generational history with Ronzoni or pastina. — Peggy Hernandez, BostonGlobe.com, 24 Jan. 2023

Word History

Etymology

Italian, diminutive of pasta pasta

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pastina was in 1903

Rhymes for pastina

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Browse Nearby Words

pastime
pastina
Pastinaca
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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