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

Join a Gullah Heritage Trail tour to learn more, and eat delicious local classics like gumbo and fried okra at the Gullah Grub restaurant. —Mark Ellwood, AFAR Media, 19 Mar. 2025

There's truly no better classic Southern side dish to accompany Sunday supper than our air fryer okra. —Catherine Jessee, Southern Living, 7 Feb. 2025

The crispy, golden exterior was perfectly balanced with the earthy, fresh flavor of the okra itself. —Tamia Boyd, Charlotte Observer, 17 Mar. 2025

But that’s the price Mondays for a fully dressed burger with about a half-pound of beef, a choice of cheese and any of 18 different side dishes, from fries or waffle fries to veggies, okra, a Caesar or even a baked potato. —Bud Kennedy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Mar. 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