uszek

Uszek is a Polish noun with more than one common meaning. In everyday language, it is the diminutive form of ucho, meaning a small ear. Formed with the suffix -ek, uszek is used to describe a small ear on humans or animals, or an ear-shaped projection on an object or mechanism.

In Polish culinary usage, a closely related word uszka (plural) denotes small dumplings traditionally served in barszcz (beet soup), especially during Christmas Eve. The singular form of the dumpling is rarely used in modern speech; the dish is normally referred to in the plural as uszka or sometimes as uszka. These dumplings are made from thin dough and filled with ingredients such as mushrooms and onions; regional variations may use buckwheat or meat. They are typically shaped into small crescent- or ear-like forms and boiled before serving, often floating in or accompanied by the soup.

Culturally, uszka are a familiar element of Polish Christmas Eve meals, reflecting regional culinary customs and family traditions. Outside of cuisine, the term remains a common diminutive for small ears or ear-shaped features in objects, continuing to be understood in everyday Polish.