spaghetti

UK: /spəˈɡeti/ | US: /spəˈɡɛti/

Definition
  1. n. A type of pasta made in long, thin, solid strings, typically served with a sauce.

Structure
spaghett <twine>i <plural suffix>
Etymology

spaghetti = spaghett<twine> + i<plural suffix>

  • spaghett<twine>: Derived from Italian spaghetto (singular), meaning "thin string" or "twine," itself from spago (cord).
  • i<plural suffix>: Italian plural marker for masculine nouns ending in -o.

Etymology Origin:
The word spaghetti entered English directly from Italian in the mid-19th century, retaining its original plural form. Its root spago (cord) reflects the pasta’s string-like shape. The term humorously contrasts with spaghetto (singular), which is rarely used in English. The evolution highlights Italian culinary influence and linguistic borrowing.

Examples
  1. She cooked spaghetti with a rich tomato sauce for dinner.

  2. The children slurped spaghetti noisily at the party.

  3. Authentic Italian spaghetti is made from durum wheat.

  4. He accidentally dropped a forkful of spaghetti on his shirt.

  5. Spaghetti carbonara is a classic Roman dish.