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

Roast yam whole in the oven for 45 min or until completely done – stick a fork in it. —Jessica Fields, Essence, 28 Feb. 2025

The oil-free elixir also features antioxidant-rich wild yam root extract to provide anti-inflammatory benefits for those with sensitive and acne-prone skin, making this a versatile pick for all skin types. —Devon Abelman, Allure, 11 Feb. 2025

Wild Yam Wild yams contain a compound called diosgenin, which is a natural dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). —Emmanuella Ogbonna, Health, 7 Jan. 2025

In one study, chitinase extracted from a yam was sprayed on powdery mildew that had infected strawberry foliage and fruit. —Joshua Siskin, Orange County Register, 8 Mar. 2025

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

Rhymes for yam

• am
• bam
• cham
• clam
• damme
• damn
• dram
• flam
• fram
• gram
• ham
• jam

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