yam

noun

ˈyam 

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

Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed a buffet of traditional Nigerian foods including coconut rice, rice with stew, yam porridge, abacha, moi-moi, egg rolls, meatballs, puff puff, nuts and plantain chips. —Erin Clack, Peoplemag, 27 Nov. 2023

Not only does its color shine among the browns and beiges of side dishes like stuffing and mashed potatoes, but its sweet-tart flavor offsets the richness of roasted turkey, macaroni and cheese, and buttery yams. —Washington Post, 17 Nov. 2023

Thompson begins by slackening onions in a pan, followed by garlic and yellow yam, tomatoes and red bell pepper, contrasts of yield and crunch. —Ligaya Mishan, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2024

Strangers, old friends and everyone in between are getting a warm welcome at the new Londa’s To-Go in West Charlotte, where takeout orders for fried chicken, smothered pork chops, cabbage and candied yams are flying out the door. —Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 29 Mar. 2024

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

Kids Definition

yam

noun

ˈyam 

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