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

For the busiest weeks, cook and refrigerate the quinoa ahead of time. —Bethany Thayer, Freep.com, 12 July 2025

These foods include kiwi, quinoa, brown rice, and chia seeds.30 Increasing your fiber intake can benefit your health in several ways, such as lowering heart disease risk factors, decreasing blood sugar levels, and protecting against digestive diseases. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 10 July 2025

The Dinner Menu Filets, quinoa, sautéed spinach, and red wine were on the menu for supper with the in-laws. —Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 20 June 2025

How does the quinoa included in many dishes stay fresh? —Gary Stern, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, from Quechua kinua

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for quinoa

• boa
• noa
• noah
• shoah
• toa
• bryozoa
• metazoa
• polyzoa
• protozoa
• spermatozoa

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