variants or less commonly channa
: chickpea
also : a dish made from chickpeas

Examples of chana in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
How upma is flavored is a matter of preference: Toss in additional chiles and curry leaves for more heat and flavor, or more toasted chana dal for extra crunch. Meher Mirza, Saveur, 27 Feb. 2025 In the past five years, the nonprofit found, California school districts have added 41 new vegan dishes to their menus, including chana masala bowls, vegan tamales, and falafel wraps. Frida Garza, WIRED, 19 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Hindi canā, going back to Sanskrit caṇakaḥ, of uncertain origin

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chana was in 1838

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Chana.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chana. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!