Meaning & Definition of word "Dumpling"

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    Dumpling

    /ˈdʌmplɪŋ/

    noun:

    • 1. A small, rounded mass of dough, typically filled with meat or vegetables and cooked by boiling, steaming, or frying.
      • Example: She served steaming hot dumplings filled with pork and cabbage.
    • 2. A soft, often round food item made of flour, starch, or potato, cooked by steaming or boiling, typically served as a side dish.
      • Example: We enjoyed chicken and vegetable soup with fluffy dumplings on the side.
    • 3. A type of dessert, usually sweet and often made with fruit or sweet fillings, enclosed in dough and cooked.
      • Example: The dessert dumplings were filled with ripe cherries and dusted with powdered sugar.

    Etymology

    The word 'dumpling' is believed to originate from the 17th century, possibly from the Dutch word 'damp', meaning 'steam'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    Dumpling soup:

    A broth-based soup that contains dumplings as a main ingredient.

    Dumpling night:

    An event typically centered around making and sharing dumplings.

    A dumpling in the hand:

    An expression suggesting that having something simple is better than hoping for something better.

    Related Words

    potsticker:

    A dumpling that is pan-fried on one side and steamed on the other.

    wonton:

    A Chinese dumpling filled with a variety of ingredients, often served in soup.

    ravioli:

    Italian filled pasta that is similar to dumplings.

    Slang Meanings of dumpling

    Meaning: An affectionate term for an affectionate or chubby person.

    Example Sentence: Look at you, you little dumpling!

    Meaning: A cozy or comfortable situation.

    Example Sentence: I just want to stay in and be a dumpling on the couch.