okra

noun

ˈō-krə 

Southern also -krē

1

: a tall annual herb (Abelmoschus esculentus) of the mallow family that is cultivated for its mucilaginous green pods used especially in soups or stews

also : the pods of this plant

2

: gumbo entry 1 sense 1

Examples of okra in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite their name, these plants aren’t such a sweet mix with okra. —Michelle Mastro, Martha Stewart, 9 June 2026

This one pot dish is not lacking on flavor thanks to bacon, shrimp, crab, okra, tomatoes, onion, celery, and bell pepper; plus an array of seasonings. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 5 June 2026

Less common vegetables, such as jicama and okra, have even higher amounts of fiber. —Joy Emeh, Health, 3 June 2026

Irrigation tubes lie in a tangle where his lemongrass, cucumber and okra once flourished. —Jennifer Sinco Kelleher, Los Angeles Times, 17 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

of African origin; akin to Ibo ókùrù okra

First Known Use

1679, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

okra

noun

ˈō-krə 

: a tall herb related to the hollyhocks and grown for its edible green pods which are used especially in soups and stews

also : these pods