brinjal

noun

brin·​jal

ˈbrinˌjȯl,

-jäl

ˈbrinjəl

variants or brinjaul

plural -s

India & Africa

: eggplant

Word History

Etymology

Portuguese bringella, beringela, from Arabic bādhinjān, from Persian bādingān, probably from Sanskrit vātiṅgaṇa

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now