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.
In Los Angeles, don't miss the must-order refried lentils and tortilla at Broken Spanish Comedor. — The Bon Appétit Staff, Bon Appetit Magazine, 24 Aug. 2026 Nobody is encouraging you to share your feelings over bowls of lentil broth with a table of strangers. — Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 23 Aug. 2026 Beans and lentils provide fiber, while tofu, nuts, and fatty fish provide unsaturated fats. — Lindsey Desoto, HEALTH, 20 Aug. 2026 Beans and Lentils Legumes, that’s beans, split peas, and lentils, appear repeatedly in longevity research, whether in Mediterranean, DASH, or Okinawan-style eating patterns. — Lynn Andriani, Martha Stewart, 12 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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