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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lentil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lentil. Accessed 15 Mar. 2025.

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

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