pancetta

noun

pan·​cet·​ta (ˌ)pan-ˈche-tə How to pronounce pancetta (audio)
: unsmoked bacon used especially in Italian cuisine

Examples of pancetta 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 third course is butter-poached lobster with tagliolini pasta, pancetta and green peas in parmesan chardonnay butter sauce. Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner, Forbes.com, 21 Jan. 2026 Although the Gruyère adds a nuttiness that pairs well with the mushrooms and pancetta. Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 21 Jan. 2026 But her pork, for both the pancetta and the sausage Hilarides makes, comes from Thompson Heritage Ranch in Ramona. Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Jan. 2026 The breakfast menu features classics alongside local specialities, including St Lucia green fig and salt fish or the innovative Jade Mountain Volcanic Signature Egg: a 60-minute egg served in a glass with creamy spinach, butternut foam, truffle and crispy pancetta. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pancetta

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from diminutive of pancia belly, paunch, from Latin pantic-, pantex

First Known Use

1841, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pancetta was in 1841

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pancetta.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pancetta. Accessed 5 Feb. 2026.

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!

More from Merriam-Webster