lentil

noun

len·​til ˈlen-tᵊl How to pronounce lentil (audio)
1
: a widely cultivated Eurasian annual leguminous plant (Vicia lens synonym Lens culinaris) with flattened edible seeds and leafy stalks used as fodder
2
: the seed of the lentil

Examples of lentil 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.
Rely on pantry staples like lentils, chickpeas and black beans that are high in protein, fiber and very budget-friendly. — Erica Lamberg, Fox News, 9 Mar. 2025 Potassium sources include but aren't limited to bananas, lentils, and potatoes.8 Summary Magnesium and potassium are two essential minerals found in foods and supplements. — Brittany Lubeck, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 4 Mar. 2025 Here, rainbow lentils ($16) are served cool and al dente atop a creamy daal puree, with a bright chutney vinaigrette tying everything together. — John Metcalfe, The Mercury News, 26 Feb. 2025 In 2022, a company called Daily Harvest started adding a substance called tara flour to its lentil and leek crumbles product, labeling the additive GRAS. — Alana Semuels, TIME, 3 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lentil

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French lentille, from Latin lenticula, diminutive of lent-, lens

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lentil was in the 13th century

Rhymes for lentil

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lentil
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Cite this Entry

“Lentil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lentil. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

lentil

noun
len·​til ˈlent-ᵊl How to pronounce lentil (audio)
: a Eurasian plant of the legume family widely grown for its flattened edible seeds and leafy stalks used as food for cattle
also : its seed

More from Merriam-Webster on lentil

Nglish: Translation of lentil for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about lentil

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