enchilada

noun

en·​chi·​la·​da ˌen-chə-ˈlä-də 

1

: a usually corn tortilla rolled around a savory mixture, covered with chili sauce, and usually baked

2

: schmear sense 1, ball of wax

the whole enchilada

Examples of enchilada in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Also high in protein, beans can be used not only in soups and stews but in wraps, veg and grain bowls, enchiladas, and casseroles. —Avery Hurt, Discover Magazine, 4 Nov. 2024

From dump-and-bake lasagnas to vegetarian enchilada bakes, casserole content has been racking up views and likes. —Jason Ma, Fortune, 21 Oct. 2024

Because President Clinton's favorite is enchiladas. —Katia Riddle, NPR, 12 Sep. 2024

From French gratins to Mexican enchiladas, casseroles take many forms, but the concept remains the same: A hearty, baked dish that’s easy to prepare and share. —Jason Ma, Fortune, 21 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

American Spanish, from feminine of enchilado, past participle of enchilar to season with chili, from Spanish en- en- entry 1 + chile chili

First Known Use

1878, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing enchilada

• the big enchilada
• the whole enchilada

Kids Definition

enchilada

noun

en·​chi·​la·​da ˌen-chə-ˈläd-ə 

: a tortilla rolled around a meat or cheese filling and covered with a chili sauce

Etymology

American Spanish, derived from earlier enchilar "to season with chili"