lentil

noun

len·​til ˈlen-tᵊl 

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

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

Nuggets, wings, manchurian mix, lentils and chicken were stored above proper holding temperatures in a malfunctioning refrigerator unit. — Vince Basada august 7, Sacbee.com, 7 Aug. 2026

Heart-healthy soup options include low- or no-sodium lentil, black bean, and minestrone soups. — Mark Gurarie, HEALTH, 4 Aug. 2026

Make it with red lentils, zucchini, coconut milk, yogurt, and heaps of warm spices. — Hannah Agran, Midwest Living, 2 Aug. 2026

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

Rhymes for lentil

• dental
• ental
• gentle
• mental
• rental
• accidental
• compartmental
• continental
• detrimental
• elemental
• fundamental
• governmental

Kids Definition

lentil

noun

len·​til ˈlent-ᵊl 

: 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