A meatball is a small ball of ground meat mixed with seasonings, eggs, and breadcrumbs, then cooked by frying, baking, or simmering in sauce. Italian meatballs are probably the most famous, often served with spaghetti and tomato sauce, but cultures around the world make their own versions. Swedish meatballs come with a creamy gravy, while Middle Eastern kofta are spiced lamb meatballs. Asian cuisines have varieties too, like Chinese lion's head meatballs made with pork.

Making meatballs requires skill: roll them too loosely and they fall apart in the pan; pack them too tightly and they turn dense and tough. The best meatballs hold together while staying tender inside.

The word also describes a clumsy or foolish person in a lighthearted way. If your friend trips over their own shoelaces, you might tease them by calling them a meatball. It's a gentle insult, the kind you'd use with someone you actually like. Not everyone likes being teased, so it's best used only when you know the other person will laugh too.