lentil

noun

len·​til ˈlen-tᵊl How to pronounce lentil (audio)
1
: a widely cultivated Eurasian annual leguminous plant (Vicia lens synonym Lens culinaris) with flattened edible seeds and leafy stalks used as fodder
2
: the seed of the lentil

Examples of lentil 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.
Eggs, Greek yogurt, beans, and lentils are also good protein sources. — Sheah Rarback, Miami Herald, 22 Oct. 2026 There are usually two choices for lunch, perhaps zingy feta salad or lentil and butternut spring rolls. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Oct. 2026 For plant protein sources, try beans, lentils, leafy greens or soy; for animal sources, lean meats, fish or yogurt are good choices. — Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 20 Oct. 2026 Red wine vinegar brings welcome acidity to BA’s Best Gazpacho, coq au vin, a pot of hearty lentils, and rich meat marinades. — Emily Saladino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 19 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for lentil

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French lentille, from Latin lenticula, diminutive of lent-, lens

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lentil was in the 13th century

Rhymes for lentil

See All Rhymes for lentil

Browse Nearby Words

lentiginous
lentil
lentile
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lentil.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lentil. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

lentil

noun
len·​til ˈlent-ᵊl How to pronounce lentil (audio)
: a Eurasian plant of the legume family widely grown for its flattened edible seeds and leafy stalks used as food for cattle
also : its seed

More from Merriam-Webster on lentil

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about lentil

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