cucumber

noun

cu·​cum·​ber ˈkyü-(ˌ)kəm-bər 

: the fruit of a vine (Cucumis sativus) of the gourd family cultivated as a garden vegetable

also : this vine

Illustration of cucumber

Examples of cucumber in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In a pitcher combine cucumber, jalapeño slices, and 1/2 tsp. —Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 May 2025

Purpose Of The Plastic English cucumbers, sometimes called hothouse cucumbers or European cucumbers, have a long, narrow shape and a thin, edible skin. —Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 15 May 2025

In the series, Justin has an important conversation (and cucumber demonstration) with his father about contraception. —Clare Mulroy, USA Today, 11 May 2025

Infused with aloe leaf, cucumber, and black tulip extract, the setting spray is designed with lacquered, color-locking ingredients, turning the couture glass skin dream of her artistry mask into a more tangible reality. —India Espy-Jones, Essence, 1 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French cucumbre, from Latin cucumer-, cucumis

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing cucumber

• cucumber mosaic
• cucumber tree
• sea cucumber
• spotted cucumber beetle
• squirting cucumber

Kids Definition

cucumber

noun

cu·​cum·​ber ˈkyü-(ˌ)kəm-bər 

: the long fleshy usually many-seeded green-skinned fruit of a vine of the gourd family that is grown as a garden vegetable

also : this vine

Medical Definition

cucumber

noun

cu·​cum·​ber ˈkyü-(ˌ)kəm-bər 

: the fruit of a vine (Cucumis sativus) of the gourd family that is cultivated as a garden vegetable and that has diuretic seeds

also : this vine