Dumpling
/ˈdʌm.plɪŋ/noun
A small portion of dough, often filled or cooked in liquid, served as food.
Did you know?The word’s origin is not completely certain, but it most likely combines English “dump,” meaning a lump or rounded mass, with the diminutive suffix “-ling.”
Etymological Timeline
15th–16th Century
English
dump
“A lump, clod, or shapeless mass; the precise origin of this sense is uncertain.”
16th Century
English
-ling
“A diminutive suffix meaning a small one or something associated with the preceding word.”
17th Century
English
dumpling
“A small lump of dough, initially describing its rounded shape.”
17th–18th Century
English
dumpling
“A ball or portion of dough cooked by boiling, steaming, or baking.”
Modern English
English
dumpling
“A broad culinary term for a cooked dough preparation, frequently filled or served with savory or sweet dishes.”