lentil

noun

len·​til ˈlen-tᵊl 

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

Most of the time, the meal is a mix of lentils, rice, or beans. —Daphne Ewing-Chow, Forbes, 5 Jan. 2025

Eat black-eyed peas and lentils Add even more round foods to your day with these little guys! —Julia Gomez, USA TODAY, 31 Dec. 2024

The diminutive legume enjoys ancient roots, and for good reason—lentils are a source of protein, potassium, folate, and more. —Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 30 Dec. 2024

These phytoestrogen types are found in foods like soy (tofu, miso, tempeh, edamame), legumes, and lentils. —Wendy Wisner, Health, 26 Dec. 2024

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

Kids Definition

lentil

noun

len·​til ˈlent-ᵊl 

: 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