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

Dredge 1 piece of okra in flour, shaking off excess. —Jasmine Smith, Southern Living, 12 June 2025

Submerge the okra in water and leave overnight in the refrigerator. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 21 May 2025

Place breaded okra on a plate or baking sheet; repeat with remaining okra. —Jasmine Smith, Southern Living, 12 June 2025

Unlike its larger counterparts that may feel unwieldy within the confines of the hallowed relish tray, the little forks are just the right size for daintily placing in small bowls of various pickled delights, from okra to onions, or nestling alongside the crudités. —Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 10 May 2025

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