masa

noun

ma·​sa ˈmä-sə 

: 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

Sold in jars or pouches, Guelaguetza’s mole starters can be purchased individually or in gift boxes; some gift boxes contain only mole, some come with beans and masa, and others include cookbooks by co-owner Bricia Lopez. —Stephanie Breijo, Los Angeles Times, 3 Nov. 2024

Tacos are served on bright green and red tortillas, which get a distinct color from spinach and beets incorporated into the masa. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 18 Oct. 2024

The unassuming madeleines embody Xiao Ye’s eclectic, expansive ethos: delicate French pastries baked with mochi rice flour and masa, dusted in jalapeño powder. —The Bon Appétit Staff & Contributors, Bon Appétit, 21 Oct. 2024

Eaten together, on a warm masa tortilla , the marrow and the birria nearly overwhelm each other, but both are kept just in balance by the snap of pickled onion and the sharp bite of cilantro. —Helen Rosner, The New Yorker, 20 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, mash, dough

First Known Use

circa 1896, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing masa

• masa harina

Kids Definition

masa

noun

ma·​sa ˈmä-sə 

: 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