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

Mint, feta, chickpeas, and cucumbers are often paired with lamb dishes in mediterranean cuisine. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 14 Mar. 2026

Part of the Cucurbita family, cucumbers, yellow squash, and zucchini can all fall prey to squash bugs alongside other common garden pests like aphids and cucumber beetles. —Haniya Rae, Martha Stewart, 12 Mar. 2026

Common types, such as tuberous and wax begonias, are said to have a cucumber-like crunch and a slightly citrusy, tangy taste. —Derek Carwood, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Mar. 2026

Can onions and squash, carrots and cucumbers bring an urban neighborhood together? —Mary Ann Grossmann, Twin Cities, 8 Mar. 2026

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