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

Wrap jarred, pickled okra pods in thin slices of country ham. — Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 19 Sep. 2026

The kurkuri bhindi, or crispy okra, has become a fan favorite for good reason, transforming the polarizing pods into feathery threads for an irresistible finger-food snack. — Louisa Kung Liu Chu, Chicago Tribune, 15 Sep. 2026

The same chargrill produces the usual skewers but also charred okra spears or smoky mushrooms. — Bud Kennedy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Sep. 2026

People stopped for Black Diamond, Sugar Baby and Crimson Sweet watermelons, along with cantaloupes, greens, okra, sweet potatoes and whatever else West had available. — Kansas City Star, 28 Aug. 2026

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