CultureAugust 15, 2026

paya

PAH-yuh

Definition

A traditional South Asian soup or stew made from slow-cooked goat or sheep trotters, known for its rich, gelatinous broth.

Etymology

The word comes from the Urdu and Hindi word 'paya', which literally means 'legs' or 'feet', referring to the primary ingredient of the soup.

In the news

The article mentions paya as a popular, steaming hot dish served by street vendors in Mumbai, illustrating how locals consume hot liquids to stay cool in extreme heat.

For Many, Eating Hot Soup in the Summer Is a Classic Way to Cool Down

Read the full article ↗

The New York Times

Related words

actorly

Relating to or characteristic of the profession, skills, or mannerisms of an actor.

Culture

aikido

A Japanese martial art that emphasizes using an opponent's own energy and momentum…

Culture

androgynous

Having both male and female characteristics, or being neither clearly masculine nor…

Culture

aplomb

Self-confidence or assurance, especially when in a demanding situation.

Culture

apparition

A supernatural appearance of a person or thing, often a ghost or spirit.

Culture

autochthonous

Indigenous or native to a particular place; originating from the place where it is found.

Culture

Learn words like this every day

Meet new words every morning.

Newspoken pulls carefully chosen words from the day’s news — with clear definitions, context, and light review that makes them stick. Get it on your phone.