quinoa

noun

qui·​noa ˈkēn-ˌwä 

kē-ˈnō-ə

: an annual herb (Chenopodium quinoa) of the amaranth family that is native to the Andean highlands and is cultivated for its starchy seeds which are used as food and ground into flour

also : its seeds

Examples of quinoa in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Avocados, even more so than other au courant superfoods like kale, quinoa, or açaí, illustrated something about the generation: specifically, that our appetite for small pleasures would ultimately bring about our doom. —Rebecca Jennings, Vox, 30 Jan. 2025

Avoid High-Roughage Foods A week before starting colonoscopy prep, avoid foods that are difficult to clear from the colon, like quinoa, chia seeds and nuts. —John Mac Ghlionn, Newsweek, 14 Jan. 2025

What to try: Build your own bowl with a base such as kale and quinoa or brown rice, your choice of protein, up to three veggies and a sauce. —Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 8 Jan. 2025

Roasted salmon with whole grains and greens: Roast a salmon fillet with olive oil and salt, then serve it with quinoa or farro and a leafy green salad. —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 22 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, from Quechua kinua

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

quinoa

noun

qui·​noa ki-ˈnō-ə 

: a goosefoot that occurs in the Andes and has starchy seeds that are used as food and ground into flour

also : its seeds