Search Dictionary
Definition of jambalaya

jambalaya

/ˌdʒæm.bəˈlaɪ.ə/
jam · ba · lay · a
Plural:jambalayas
JUMP TO:

jambalaya Lexical Profile

jambalaya Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

American A traditional Louisiana Creole and Cajun dish consisting of rice cooked in a single pot with a flavorful mixture of meat (often chicken and smoked sausage), seafood (such as shrimp), vegetables, and savory spices.

Example

"For the neighborhood potluck, she prepared a massive cast-iron pot of spicy chicken and sausage jambalaya."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for jambalaya

• Rhymes for jambalaya

• Nearby Words

jamaican iguana
jamari
jamb
jambalaya
jambolan
jamboree
jambox

Word Origin & Etymology

Originating in southern Louisiana in the 18th century, the term likely stems from the Provençal word 'jambalaia', meaning a mishmash or mixed dish, reflecting a rich blend of French, Spanish, and West African culinary traditions.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Jambalaya. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/jambalaya
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.