arugula

noun

aru·​gu·​la ə-ˈrü-gə-lə 

-gyə-

: a yellowish-flowered Mediterranean herb (Eruce sativa synonym E. vesicaria sativa) of the mustard family cultivated for its foliage which is used especially in salads

called also garden rocket, rocket, roquette, rugola

Examples of arugula in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

MyFitnessPal shared a High-Protein Breakfast Quesadilla estimated at 31g using bacon, eggs, black beans, jalapeno, a whole-grain tortilla, cheddar, baby arugula and cumin. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 2 Sep. 2026

This garden is where Sofia’s late mother Eloise planted arugula and Francis oversaw every last detail—and the pizzeria remains Sofia’s personal favorite. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Sep. 2026

In a large serving bowl, combine the strawberries, spinach, arugula, goat cheese, and candied pecans. — ABC News, 26 Aug. 2026

Paired with peppery arugula and briny feta, the charred melon becomes the centerpiece in a salad that balances sweet, salty and savory notes in every bite. — Lynda Balslev, Mercury News, 25 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Italian, probably from a southern dialectal form of Tuscan ruca, rucola, as Neapolitan arucola, arucolo, with English spelling -gu- reflecting lenis articulation of consonants and reduction of vowels — more at rocket entry 1

Note: For similar reflection in English spelling of southern Italian articulation compare agita, goombah. Forms with the initial ēr- of the Latin etymon ērūca "arugula, Eruca vesicaria" opened to ar- are widespread in Italian dialects—see Lessico etimologico italiano, letter E, columns 733-34.

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above