leek

noun

ˈlēk 

plural leeks

: a biennial herbaceous plant (Allium porrum synonym A. ampeloprasum var. porrum) of the amaryllis family that is related to the garlic, onion and chive and is commonly grown as an annual for its mildly pungent linear leaves and especially for its cylindrical stemlike lower sheath of leaves

Illustration of leek

Examples of leek in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The recipe may also include garlic, parsnips, turnips or leeks and herbs like thyme, rosemary or bay leaves. — Jay R. Brooks, Mercury News, 8 Sep. 2026

Braised leeks hold their own against the supple quail leg, both absorbing the rich foie jus and allium romesco, and a little spark of kumquat. — The Bon Appétit Staff, Bon Appetit Magazine, 24 Aug. 2026

Late plantings of peas and radishes also mature well in fall, as do carrots, beets, parsnips, and other root crops, storage potatoes, leeks, and most brassicas, like broccoli and cabbage. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Aug. 2026

Come for live music on the weekends and make sure to start with Cortez Seafood Chowder, packed with grouper and shrimp plus leeks, potatoes, and okra. — Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 28 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English lēac; akin to Old High German louh leek

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for leek

• beak
• beek
• bleak
• cheek
• chic
• clique
• creak
• creek
• eke
• freak
• geek
• greek

Kids Definition

leek

noun

ˈlēk 

: a garden herb closely related to the onion and grown for its mildly sharp-tasting leaves and thick stalk