lettuce

noun

let·​tuce ˈle-təs 

: any of a genus (Lactuca) of composite plants

especially : a common garden vegetable (L. sativa) whose succulent leaves are used especially in salads

Examples of lettuce in a Sentence

I like a little lettuce and tomato on my sandwiches.

Recent Examples on the Web

On top of the masa is your protein of choice, lettuce, onions, queso and crema, with your choice of salsa. —Rachel Bernhard, jsonline.com, 24 Aug. 2025

Top with sour cream, lettuce, pico de gallo, and scallions. —Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 24 Aug. 2025

Use lettuce, greens or cheese between the bread and other toppings as a moisture barrier. —Cody Godwin, USA Today, 23 Aug. 2025

It’s squished between two thick pieces of bread that hold up well, with sliced pickles on the underside, lettuce on top, and a spread of ranch sauce on either side. —Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 22 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English letuse, from Anglo-French letuse, probably from plural of letue lettuce plant, from Latin lactuca, from lact-, lac milk; from its milky juice — more at galaxy

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing lettuce

• Bibb lettuce
• Boston lettuce
• butter lettuce
• cos lettuce
• devil's lettuce
• iceberg lettuce
• lamb's lettuce
• miner's lettuce
• sea lettuce

Rhymes for lettuce

• metis

Kids Definition

lettuce

noun

let·​tuce ˈlet-əs 

: a common garden vegetable related to the daisies that has crisp juicy leaves used especially in salads