lentil

noun

len·​til ˈlen-tᵊl 

1

: a widely cultivated Eurasian annual leguminous plant (Vicia lens synonym Lens culinaris) with flattened edible seeds and leafy stalks used as fodder

2

: the seed of the lentil

Examples of lentil in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Use them as meat substitutes (lentil chili, bean burger). —Brittany Poulson, Verywell Health, 14 Oct. 2025

To reduce sodium further, rinse beans, lentils, and vegetables before using. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 14 Oct. 2025

Mix bitter lettuce varieties like radicchio and endive with tender greens, add something substantial like lentils or roasted sweet potatoes, and finish with bright pops of pomegranate or dried cranberries. —Joe Sevier, Bon Appetit Magazine, 11 Oct. 2025

Adair suggests focusing bigtime on legumes—like beans, peas, lentils, edamame, and peanuts. —Erica Sloan, SELF, 8 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French lentille, from Latin lenticula, diminutive of lent-, lens

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for lentil

• dental
• ental
• gentle
• mental
• rental
• accidental
• compartmental
• continental
• detrimental
• elemental
• fundamental
• governmental

Kids Definition

lentil

noun

len·​til ˈlent-ᵊl 

: a Eurasian plant of the legume family widely grown for its flattened edible seeds and leafy stalks used as food for cattle

also : its seed