okra

noun

ˈō-krə 

 Southern also  -krē

1

: a tall annual herb (Abelmoschus esculentus) of the mallow family that is cultivated for its mucilaginous green pods used especially in soups or stews

also : the pods of this plant

2

: gumbo entry 1 sense 1

Examples of okra in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Afro-Atlantic inspirations get a Gallic accent, with a menu retaining the tenets of Paris bistro and café fare, revisited with touches of the American South’s culinary hallmarks such as okra, pecans and corn. —Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 30 Sep. 2025

Each small okra pod is full of edible seeds surrounded by a gel-like substance. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 23 Sep. 2025

For generations, the Gullah Geechee have been sharing their culture and cuisine, which relies on rice, peas, okra, shrimp, and crabs. —Nicholas Derenzo, AFAR Media, 16 Sep. 2025

Edible okra is usually harvested when the pods are about 3 inches long. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

of African origin; akin to Ibo ókùrù okra

First Known Use

1679, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

okra

noun

ˈō-krə 

: a tall herb related to the hollyhocks and grown for its edible green pods which are used especially in soups and stews

also : these pods