lettuce

noun

let·​tuce ˈle-təs 

: any of a genus (Lactuca) of composite plants

especially : a common garden vegetable (L. sativa) whose succulent leaves are used especially in salads

Examples of lettuce in a Sentence

I like a little lettuce and tomato on my sandwiches.

Recent Examples on the Web

Also popular is the Caprese salad, with spring mix lettuce, fresh mozzarella, fresh basil and tomatoes, served with a balsamic vinaigrette ($12), Pillow said. —Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 18 Feb. 2025

Some like their lettuce doused in dressing while others prefer it on the side. —Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 18 Feb. 2025

May took one bite, and felt lettuce stuck in his throat. —Ryan Canfield, Fox News, 18 Feb. 2025

Beyond that, chives and lettuce are both low-growing and light-feeding plants that won’t compete with each other for soil nutrients or sun. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English letuse, from Anglo-French letuse, probably from plural of letue lettuce plant, from Latin lactuca, from lact-, lac milk; from its milky juice — more at galaxy

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing lettuce

• Bibb lettuce
• Boston lettuce
• butter lettuce
• cos lettuce
• devil's lettuce
• iceberg lettuce
• lamb's lettuce
• miner's lettuce
• sea lettuce

Kids Definition

lettuce

noun

let·​tuce ˈlet-əs 

: a common garden vegetable related to the daisies that has crisp juicy leaves used especially in salads