enchilada

noun

en·​chi·​la·​da ˌen-chə-ˈlä-də How to pronounce enchilada (audio)
Synonyms of enchiladanext
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
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.
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 See all Example Sentences for enchilada 

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of enchilada was in 1878

Phrases Containing enchilada

Dictionary Entries Near enchilada

Enchelycephali

enchilada

enchiridion

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Enchilada.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/enchilada. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

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Kids Definition

enchilada

noun
en·​chi·​la·​da ˌen-chə-ˈläd-ə How to pronounce enchilada (audio)
: 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"

More from Merriam-Webster on enchilada

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for enchilada

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about enchilada

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