quinoa

noun

qui·​noa ˈkēn-ˌwä 

kē-ˈnō-ə

: an annual herb (Chenopodium quinoa) of the amaranth family that is native to the Andean highlands and is cultivated for its starchy seeds which are used as food and ground into flour

also : its seeds

Examples of quinoa in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Key Takeaways While both provide protein, quinoa is a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids in optimal proportions, while couscous is an incomplete protein. —Nancy Lebrun, Verywell Health, 16 Apr. 2026

Drain and rinse the quinoa and shake off excess water. —Kelly McCarthy, ABC News, 16 Apr. 2026

Thanks to Heparan Sulfate Analog (a moisturizing ingredient similar to hyaluronic acid), green tea extract, and quinoa extract, this Senté cream is deeply moisturizing, inflammation-reducing, and wrinkle-fading. —Tamim Alnuweiri, InStyle, 13 Apr. 2026

The restaurant also serves lunch specials daily, including platters with a choice of protein (chicken, salmon or, naturally, steak) with rice or quinoa and a side salad. —Connie Ogle april 9, Miami Herald, 9 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, from Quechua kinua

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for quinoa

• boa
• noa
• noah
• shoah
• toa
• bryozoa
• metazoa
• polyzoa
• protozoa
• spermatozoa

Kids Definition

quinoa

noun

qui·​noa ki-ˈnō-ə 

: a goosefoot that occurs in the Andes and has starchy seeds that are used as food and ground into flour

also : its seeds