kefir

noun

ke·​fir ke-ˈfir How to pronounce kefir (audio) ˈkē-fər How to pronounce kefir (audio) ˈke-fər How to pronounce kefir (audio)
: a beverage of fermented cow's milk

Examples of kefir in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
People who are lactose intolerant may find kefir easier to digest than regular milk because much of the lactose is broken down during fermentation. — Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 23 Oct. 2026 Try sourdough toast with Greek yogurt and berries, cottage cheese with live cultures or avocado with a small side of yogurt or kefir. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 20 Oct. 2026 Kombucha, milk kefir, water kefir, buttermilk, and probiotic juices can support digestive health. — Merve Ceylan, HEALTH, 19 Sep. 2026 And when to not drink kefir Most healthy adults can consume kefir regularly, says Halperin, but there are a few things to consider when doing so. — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 16 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for kefir

Word History

Etymology

Russian

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of kefir was in 1884

Rhymes for kefir

See All Rhymes for kefir

Browse Nearby Words

keffiyeh
kefir
kefir grain
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Kefir.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kefir. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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