leek

noun

ˈlēk 

plural leeks

: a biennial herbaceous plant (Allium porrum synonym A. ampeloprasum var. porrum) of the amaryllis family that is related to the garlic, onion and chive and is commonly grown as an annual for its mildly pungent linear leaves and especially for its cylindrical stemlike lower sheath of leaves

Illustration of leek

Examples of leek in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In fact, anything in the onion family is good in that regard – leeks, shallots, garlic, and chives as well as the more familiar yellow, white, or red onion bulbs. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Charlotte Observer, 24 Mar. 2026

In fact, anything in the onion family is good in that regard – leeks, shallots, garlic, and chives as well as the more familiar yellow, white, or red onion bulbs. —Kansas City Star, 23 Mar. 2026

When using leeks, substitute based on weight. —Kelly Vaughan, Bon Appetit Magazine, 23 Mar. 2026

In late winter, gardeners can start artichokes, perennial herbs, chard, salad greens, onions, leeks and more. —Holly McNamara, Hartford Courant, 7 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English lēac; akin to Old High German louh leek

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for leek

• beak
• beek
• bleak
• cheek
• chic
• clique
• creak
• creek
• eke
• freak
• geek
• greek

Kids Definition

leek

noun

ˈlēk 

: a garden herb closely related to the onion and grown for its mildly sharp-tasting leaves and thick stalk