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Metcalfe bean

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Met·​calfe bean | \ ˈmetˌkaf-, -kəf-, -ˌkȧf \

Definition of Metcalfe bean

1 : a prostrate perennial bean (Phaseolus metcalfei) of the southwestern U.S. and adjacent Mexico that is sometimes cultivated for forage
2 : the flat circular brownish black seed of the Metcalfe bean

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History and Etymology for Metcalfe bean

after J. K. Metcalfe who introduced it to the southwestern U.S. in the late 19th century

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Cite this Entry

“Metcalfe bean.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Metcalfe%20bean. Accessed 22 May. 2022.

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