flax

noun

ˈflaks 

often attributive

1

: any of a genus (Linum of the family Linaceae, the flax family) of herbs

especially : a slender erect annual (L. usitatissimum) with blue flowers commonly cultivated for its bast fiber and seed

2

: the fiber of the flax plant especially when prepared for spinning

3

: any of several plants resembling flax

flaxy

ˈflak-sē 

adjective

Examples of flax in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These best-selling Quince European Linen Shorts are made from 100-percent flax linen and feature four pockets for storage. —Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 21 Feb. 2026

Overnight oats often provide a meaningful amount of protein as well, primarily due to the inclusion of milk and chia or flax seeds, says Newberry. —Daryl Austin, USA Today, 21 Feb. 2026

Sharp highlights chia and ground flax as easy additions to yogurt, oatmeal, or salads that boost fiber without changing the taste much. —Lynn Andriani, Martha Stewart, 16 Feb. 2026

Flax fiber fabric is extracted from the stem of the flax plant, and is known for being durable, lightweight, and having a glossy texture. —Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 9 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English fleax; akin to Old High German flahs flax, Latin plectere to braid — more at ply

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for flax

• axe
• backs
• blacks
• cracks
• fax
• hacks
• jacks
• knacks
• lacks
• lakhs
• lax
• macs

Kids Definition

flax

noun

ˈflaks 

: a slender plant with blue flowers that is grown for its fiber from which linen is made and for its seed from which oil and livestock feed are obtained

also : its fiber