masa

noun

ma·​sa ˈmä-sə How to pronounce masa (audio)
: a dough used in Mexican cuisine (as for tortillas and tamales) that is made from ground corn soaked in a lime and water solution
also : masa harina

Examples of masa 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 dumplings are gnocchi-inspired but made with masa instead of potatoes. Timothy Depeugh, Charlotte Observer, 5 May 2025 To the center of the husk add 2 to 4 tablespoons masa (the exact amount depends on the size of the husk), and using the back of a spoon, spread the masa toward the widest part of the husk, leaving a ¼- to ½-inch border on the sides and wide end. Kelly Brant, arkansasonline.com, 31 Dec. 2024 Cover with the rest of the masa in a second layer. 5. Christine Rousselle, Fox News, 23 Dec. 2024 The Salvadorian delicacy is a masa or cornmeal patty or dough cake that’s stuffed with fillings like meat, beans, cheese, and veggies. Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 21 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for masa

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, mash, dough

First Known Use

circa 1896, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of masa was circa 1896

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Masa.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/masa. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

masa

noun
ma·​sa ˈmä-sə How to pronounce masa (audio)
: a dough used in Mexican cuisine (as for tortillas and tamales) that is made from ground corn soaked in a lime and water solution
also : masa harina

More from Merriam-Webster on masa

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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