naleśnik
/naˈlɛɕ.ɲik/masculine
The Polish word for pancake is naleśnik.
The word naleśnik refers specifically to a thin, crepe-like pancake.
Meaning: thin batter cake (noun)
Which one should you use?
The word naleśnik specifically refers to a thin, crepe-like pancake rather than a thick, American-style pancake.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular masculine form is naleśnik. To indicate 'of a pancake' in the genitive case, use naleśnika. To refer to multiple pancakes in the plural, use naleśniki.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has three syllables, and the stress is on the second syllable. The IPA is /naˈlɛɕ.ɲik/.
Did you know?
- The word naleśnik may be related to the word 'leaf', as some linguists believe it derives from an old root meaning 'spread on a leaf'.
- The phrase naleśniki z twarogiem refers to pancakes filled with 'twaróg', a traditional Polish curd cheese that has a texture and taste entirely different from American cream cheese.
- While naleśniki are the standard thin pancakes, Poles use the word placki to describe thick potato pancakes, which are a staple of Polish cuisine.
Examples in context
- Jem naleśnikiI eat pancakes
- Naleśniki z serem są pyszne.Pancakes with cheese are delicious.
- Ten naleśnik jest bardzo smaczny.This pancake is very tasty.
- Chcę zjeść naleśnik z serem.I want to eat a pancake with cheese.
Example conversation
Małgorzata and Piotr are having breakfast at home.
- MałgorzataPiotrze, czy chcesz jeszcze jeden naleśnik?Piotr, do you want one more pancake?
- PiotrTak, poproszę, jest pyszny.Yes, please, it is delicious.
- MałgorzataZrobię ci taki z owocami.I will make you one with fruit.
- PiotrDziękuję ci, Małgorzato.Thank you, Małgorzata.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “pancake” translations and entries naleśnik, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries naleśnik, CC BY-SA 4.0.
