Definition of "dumpling" [dump•ling]

• A piece of dough, sometimes filled, that is cooked in liquid such as water or soup. (noun)
• Sweetened dough wrapped around fruit, such as an apple, baked and served as a dessert. (noun)
• Informal A short, chubby creature. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "If the word dumpling confuses a New York City native, say “matzo ball.”"
• "However, I did make some chicken and dumplings the way my mama makes it and surprisingly, my English hubby really liked it, even though here a dumpling is a whole 'nother thing - more like a biscuit (American biscuit, not a cookie!) that floats on top of soup - crunchy on top and a bit soggy on the bottom, and equally delicious."
• "Call me just another average uneducated white guy, but I think the Thai Chicken dumpling is great."