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Definition of potsticker

potsticker

/ˈpɑːtˌstɪk.ɚ/
pot · stick · er
Plural:potstickers
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potsticker Lexical Profile

potsticker Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

North American A crescent-shaped Chinese dumpling filled with ground meat or vegetables, which is traditionally pan-fried until the bottom is crispy and then steamed in the same pan.

Example

"We ordered a plate of pork and cabbage potstickers to share as an appetizer."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for potsticker

Word Nuance & Usage

While often used interchangeably with 'dumpling', a potsticker specifically refers to the pan-fried variety that develops a crispy bottom, distinguishing it from those that are exclusively boiled or steamed.

• Nearby Words

potomac river
potoo
potoroo
potsticker
pouakai
pouakai falls
pouch

Word Origin & Etymology

A literal translation (calque) of the Mandarin Chinese word 'guōtiē' (锅贴), literally meaning 'pot stick', referring to the traditional cooking method where the dumplings adhere slightly to the wok or pan while frying.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Potsticker. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 20, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/potsticker
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