lassi

American  

[las-ee, luhs-ee] / ˈlæs i, ˈlʌs i /

noun

1. an Indian beverage of yogurt or buttermilk, water, and spices, often with the addition of fruit or sweetener.

---

lassi British  

/ ˈlæsɪ /

noun

1. a cold drink made with yoghurt or buttermilk and flavoured with sugar, salt, or a mild spice

---

Etymology

Origin of lassi

First recorded in 1875–80; from Hindi lassī, probably ultimately from Sanskrit rasaḥ “juice, liquid”

Example Sentences

In the Democratic primary, he explained ranked-choice voting with glasses of mango lassi.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 19, 2025

For a lighter option, try a mango lassi.

From New York Times • Apr. 21, 2023

The first mention of lassi suggests the concept dates from at least 1000 B.C., and is therefore likely far older.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 24, 2022

"That's because Indians underestimate our home food even though it's so powerful and the flavours are second to none," says the 30-year-old who wooed judges with dishes like smoked lassi and kadhai paneer.

From BBC • Jul. 24, 2022

I drank the lassi down, anxious to get away.

From "Homeless Bird" by Gloria Whelan