tapa

1 of 2

noun (1)

ta·​pa ˈtä-pə How to pronounce tapa (audio) ˈta- How to pronounce tapa (audio)
: a coarse cloth made in the Pacific islands from the pounded bark especially of the paper mulberry and usually decorated with geometric patterns

tapa

2 of 2

noun (2)

: an hors d'oeuvre served with drinks especially in Spanish bars
usually used in plural

Examples of tapa 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.
Noun
The menu is divided into four main sections: cold tapas, hot tapas, paellas and charcuterie. Laura Barrero, Axios, 20 Dec. 2024 The menu features a variety of traditional Spanish tapas, so guests can savor a range of flavors in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Sandra MacGregor, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024 The restaurant features a tapas menu curated by Chef José Andrés and aims to provide a quick and high-quality dining experience for travelers. Josh Rivera, USA TODAY, 19 Nov. 2024 Start with tapas like gambas al ajillo: prawns, chile de arbol, blood orange, arugula, garlic chips, citrus beurre blanc and baguette; choose from land and sea options and definitely order a paella. Bahar Anooshahr, The Arizona Republic, 13 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for tapa 

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

Marquesan & Tahitian

Noun (2)

Spanish, literally, cover, lid, probably of Germanic origin; akin to Old English tæppa tap

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1817, in the meaning defined above

Noun (2)

1939, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tapa was in 1817

Dictionary Entries Near tapa

Cite this Entry

“Tapa.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tapa. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on tapa

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!