spinach

noun

spin·​ach ˈspi-nich 

1

: an Asian herb (Spinacia oleracea) of the amaranth family cultivated for its edible leaves which form in a dense basal rosette

also : its leaves

2

a

: something unwanted, pretentious, or spurious

b

: an untidy overgrowth

spinachlike

ˈspi-nich-ˌlīk 

adjective

spinachy

ˈspi-ni-chē 

adjective

Examples of spinach in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Lettuce and spinach are perfect for shadier gardens because the shade protects them from the sun’s heat, preventing them from bolting as quickly. —Clarence Schmidt, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Apr. 2025

Top foods: Sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach, avocado, olive oil. —Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 14 Apr. 2025

Corn and spinach don't compete for nutrients, says Thurmon. —Lauren David, Southern Living, 20 Apr. 2025

Asparagus, Spinach and Leek Soup Image Asparagus is the star in this silky spring-green soup, complemented by earthy spinach and herbs and sweet fennel and leeks. —Caroline Hopkins Legaspi, New York Times, 14 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English spinache, from Anglo-French, alteration of Old French espinaces, from Medieval Latin spinachium, ultimately from Arabic isfānākh, from Pers

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

spinach

noun

spin·​ach ˈspin-ich 

: a widely grown plant with dark green leaves that are used as food

also : the leaves