noun
fusilli
fyoo-SIL-ee
Fusilli (noun) means Pasta shaped into short spirals. Example: “We tossed the fusilli with pesto and cherry tomatoes.”
noun
1
Pasta shaped into short spirals.
"We tossed the fusilli with pesto and cherry tomatoes."
"The recipe calls for a packet of fusilli instead of penne."
"Fusilli holds sauce well because of its spiral shape."
How to use fusilli
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA twisty, spiral-shaped pasta.
When to use it
A everyday cooking term borrowed directly from Italian.
Memory tip
Both fusilli and fusillis are used as the plural in English, though fusilli itself is already a plural in Italian.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
fusilli pasta
packet of fusilli
toss the fusilli
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We tossed the _____ with pesto and cherry tomatoes.
Etymology
From Italian fusilli, the plural of fusillo, itself a diminutive of fuso, meaning spindle. The name refers to the pasta's twisted, spindle-like shape.
Synonyms
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corkscrew pasta
eliche
Rhymes for fusilli
See all rhymes for fusilli →Frequently asked questions
What is fusilli?
It is pasta made in the shape of short spirals or twists.
Why is fusilli called that?
The name comes from the Italian word for spindle, describing its twisted shape.
What sauces go well with fusilli?
Its spiral shape is good at holding onto thicker sauces such as pesto.
What is the meaning of fusilli?
"fusilli" (noun) means pasta shaped into short spirals.
