spinach

noun

spin·​ach ˈspi-nich 

1

: an Asian herb (Spinacia oleracea) of the amaranth family cultivated for its edible leaves which form in a dense basal rosette

also : its leaves

2

a

: something unwanted, pretentious, or spurious

b

: an untidy overgrowth

spinachlike

ˈspi-nich-ˌlīk 

adjective

spinachy

ˈspi-ni-chē 

adjective

Examples of spinach in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Organic spinach, both bulk and cut, has been recalled nationwide after testing found listeria. —David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 9 Oct. 2025

The frozen spinach was sold nationwide at both retail stores and through distributors. —Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 9 Oct. 2025

Each scoop delivers 20 grams of pea, pumpkin, and chia protein, plus a blend of superfoods like broccoli, kale, and spinach. —Olivia Tarantino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 8 Oct. 2025

Spinach, Feta, and Egg White Wrap The spinach, feta, and egg white wrap is high in protein yet low in fat. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 8 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English spinache, from Anglo-French, alteration of Old French espinaces, from Medieval Latin spinachium, ultimately from Arabic isfānākh, from Pers

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

spinach

noun

spin·​ach ˈspin-ich 

: a widely grown plant with dark green leaves that are used as food

also : the leaves