1
: the edible starchy tuberous root of various plants (genus Dioscorea of the family Dioscoreaceae) used as a staple food in tropical areas
also : a plant producing yams
2
: a moist usually orange-fleshed sweet potato

Examples of yam 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.
The oil-free elixir also features antioxidant-rich wild yam root extract to provide anti-inflammatory benefits for those with sensitive and acne-prone skin, making this a versatile pick for all skin types. Devon Abelman, Allure, 11 Feb. 2025 Wild Yam Wild yams contain a compound called diosgenin, which is a natural dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). Emmanuella Ogbonna, Health, 7 Jan. 2025 In one study, chitinase extracted from a yam was sprayed on powdery mildew that had infected strawberry foliage and fruit. Joshua Siskin, Orange County Register, 8 Mar. 2025 Take the skin off the yams, squeeze yams into other ingredients and mix well. Jessica Fields, Essence, 28 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for yam

Word History

Etymology

earlier iname, from Portuguese inhame & Spanish ñame, of African origin; akin to Fulani nyami to eat

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of yam was in 1657

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Yam.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/yam. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

yam

noun
1
: an edible starchy root that is an important food in tropical areas
also : a plant producing yams
2
: a sweet potato with moist usually orange flesh

More from Merriam-Webster on yam

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