rind

noun

ˈrīnd 

dialectal

ˈrīn 

1

: the bark of a tree

2

: a usually hard or tough outer layer : peel, crust

rinded

ˈrīn-dəd 

adjective

Examples of rind in a Sentence

the rind of a watermelon

the rind of a cheese

Recent Examples on the Web

What sets this type apart from the classic green watermelon often found at fruit stands is this melon is known for its dark, thick rinds. — Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado july 15, Sacbee.com, 15 July 2026

All types of produce should be rinsed under running water, including those with skins or rinds that are not eaten. — Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 15 July 2026

Interestingly, the lower risk fruit are typically eaten without the rind or outside skin, which can be contaminated with feces/soil (and the parasite). — Joseph Hernandez, Bon Appetit Magazine, 14 July 2026

Fresh produce should be thoroughly washed in running water, and fruits and vegetables with firm rinds should be scrubbed. — Bay Area News Group, Mercury News, 14 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English; akin to Old High German rinda bark, and probably to Old English rendan to rend

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing rind

• pork rind

Rhymes for rind

• bind
• blind
• dined
• find
• fined
• grind
• hind
• kind
• lined
• mind
• mined
• pined

Kids Definition

rind

noun

ˈrīnd 

: the bark of a tree

also : a usually hard or tough outer layer (as the skin of a fruit)