chia

noun

ˈchē-ə 

plural chia

1

: an annual herb (Salvia hispanica) of the mint family that is native to Mexico and Guatemala, has spikes of blue, purple, or white flowers, and is grown for its grayish, edible, mucilaginous seeds which are eaten whole or used especially to make a beverage or oil

… to develop, test and grow new cultivars of chia that are able to produce seed in the cooler climate of the Upper South and Midwest, with the potential to increase production of this crop with a traceable domestic supply.

—Susan Smith-Durisek

also : any of several related salvias (especially Salvia columbariae) of the southwestern U.S. and Mexico

2

or chia seed : the seed of a chia

When mixed with water, the fiber in chia forms a gel that lowers cholesterol and keeps blood sugar stable.

—Jane E. Brody

Chia seeds are tiny and have a very mild taste, making them easy to add to all kinds of foods to boost nutrition.

—Megan Murphy

Examples of chia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Use protein powder, fruits, veggies, and nuts—maybe a little peanut butter or some chia seeds—but measure and count the calories carefully. —Nancy Lebrun, Verywell Health, 4 Nov. 2024

When eaten, chia seeds form a gelatin-like substance that helps soften stools and promotes regular bowel movements. —Sarah Scott, Verywell Health, 22 Oct. 2024

Adding chia seeds can improve protein content and add omega-3 fatty acids to those bites. 10. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 14 Oct. 2024

Chia seeds: Add chia seeds to smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal. —Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 10 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Spanish chía, from Nahuatl chía, chian, from Maya chiháan "strong, strengthening"

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined at sense 1