alfalfa
noun
al·fal·fa
al-ˈfal-fə 
: a deep-rooted leguminous perennial plant (Medicago sativa) of southwestern Asia that is widely grown for hay and forage
Examples of alfalfa in a Sentence
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Plants like forage radish, buckwheat, and alfalfa can also serve as cover crops or green manures to improve soil structure and replenish nutrients in gardens after the growing season has ended.
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Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 June 2025
In a study published last year, researchers found that alfalfa and other cattle-feed crops consume 46% of the water that is diverted from the river, accounting for nearly two-thirds of agricultural water use.
—Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 6 May 2025
The scientists found especially rapid groundwater losses in parts of northwestern and southeastern Arizona where large farms irrigate thirsty crops such as alfalfa, which is used to feed cattle locally and is also exported to countries such as China and Saudi Arabia.
—Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 27 May 2025
The 7,700-acre farm predominantly produces alfalfa for hay, runs a cow-calf operation, and grows winter wheat and corn.
—Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton, The Denver Post, 30 Dec. 2024
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Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 June 2025
In a study published last year, researchers found that alfalfa and other cattle-feed crops consume 46% of the water that is diverted from the river, accounting for nearly two-thirds of agricultural water use.
—Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 6 May 2025
The scientists found especially rapid groundwater losses in parts of northwestern and southeastern Arizona where large farms irrigate thirsty crops such as alfalfa, which is used to feed cattle locally and is also exported to countries such as China and Saudi Arabia.
—Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 27 May 2025
The 7,700-acre farm predominantly produces alfalfa for hay, runs a cow-calf operation, and grows winter wheat and corn.
—Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton, The Denver Post, 30 Dec. 2024
See All Example Sentences for alfalfa
Cite this Entry
“Alfalfa.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alfalfa. Accessed 6 Jul. 2025.
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alfalfa
noun
al·fal·fa
al-ˈfal-fə
: a deep-rooted southwest Asian plant of the legume family with purple flowers and leaves like clover that is widely grown for hay and forage
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