yam

noun

ˈyam 

1

: the edible starchy tuberous root of various plants (genus Dioscorea of the family Dioscoreaceae) used as a staple food in tropical areas

also : a plant producing yams

2

: a moist usually orange-fleshed sweet potato

Examples of yam in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Potatoes, yams, broccoli, green beans, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, beets, radishes, carrots, squash, greens. —Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 27 Nov. 2024

Many fresh fruits and vegetables can also go through security, including seasonal treats like yams, Brussels sprouts, beets, squash, pears, cranberries and more. —Kerry Breen, CBS News, 21 Nov. 2024

It’s recommended to freeze: Potatoes and yams for up to two months. —Cody Godwin, USA TODAY, 28 Nov. 2024

Some of the most popular types include: Mannitol: Naturally found in pineapples, olives, asparagus, sweet potatoes, and yams and extracted from seaweed when used as an ingredient in food. —Jamie Johnson, Verywell Health, 27 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

earlier iname, from Portuguese inhame & Spanish ñame, of African origin; akin to Fulani nyami to eat

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

yam

noun

ˈyam 

1

: an edible starchy root that is an important food in tropical areas

also : a plant producing yams

2

: a sweet potato with moist usually orange flesh