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

This salad is a complete meal, with the chicken, croutons, and lettuce all prepared on the grill, then topped with a fantastic creamy dressing. — Jasmine Thompson, Midwest Living, 25 July 2026

The diet includes leafy green vegetables, such as spinach, kale and lettuce, which help slow memory decline. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 25 July 2026

Taylor Farms has recalled shredded lettuce processed in central Mexico that was shipped to restaurants, food services and retailers in 27 states. — Brenda Goodman, CNN Money, 24 July 2026

Taylor Farms supplies lettuce and other produce to major retailers such as Walmart, Target and Whole Foods, as well as restaurant chains including Taco Bell. — Annika Kim Constantino,amelia Lucas, CNBC, 24 July 2026

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

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