noun, verb — 3 senses
/pɪnˈjɑː.tə/ · /pɪnˈjæ.tə/
Etymology Unadapted borrowing from Mexican Spanish piñata, from piña (“pinecone”), from Latin pinea, because its paper cover (on traditional making) resembles one. Alternatively from Spanish via Italian pignatta (“clay pot”), from a Chinese custom allegedly introduced by Marco Polo.
A doll or other decorated container that is filled with candy and hit with a hammer or a stick by blindfolded children during birthday parties or other celebrations until the candy falls out.
Figuratively Something which is repeatedly hit or damaged over a period of time.
Etymology Unadapted borrowing from Mexican Spanish piñata, from piña (“pinecone”), from Latin pinea, because its paper cover (on traditional making) resembles one. Alternatively from Spanish via Italian pignatta (“clay pot”), from a Chinese custom allegedly introduced by Marco Polo.
To hit something or someone with sticks after having filled them with candy.
Entry derived from the Wiktionary, under licence CC BY-SA 4.0 — list of authors.