okra

noun

ˈō-krə 

 Southern also  -krē

1

: a tall annual herb (Abelmoschus esculentus) of the mallow family that is cultivated for its mucilaginous green pods used especially in soups or stews

also : the pods of this plant

2

: gumbo entry 1 sense 1

Examples of okra in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Other good options are the okra stew, moussaka and a shepherd casserole of lamb sauteed with garlic, onions, fresh herbs and tomatoes. —Keith Pandolfi, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025

Their spot in the garden can then be planted to summer crops like okra, southern peas or sweet potatoes. —Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 May 2025

While some of the top searches for this time of year revolve around seasonal produce like okra, corn, or heirloom tomatoes, other popular search terms have to do with grilling staples like ground beef. —Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 24 May 2025

The names on the containers include dishes like aloo methi (potatoes with fenugreek leaves), bhindi (okra), and moong dal (yellow lentils). —Maria Morava, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

of African origin; akin to Ibo ókùrù okra

First Known Use

1679, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

okra

noun

ˈō-krə 

: a tall herb related to the hollyhocks and grown for its edible green pods which are used especially in soups and stews

also : these pods