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

The main course options are pappardelle, four-cheese spinach lasagna or brick roasted chicken. —Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 23 Feb. 2026

Some, like spinach, kale, and broccoli, are also higher in protein. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 21 Feb. 2026

Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, spinach, white beans, and basil pesto are the base of this zesty orzo salad while salted pistachios add the perfect crunch. —Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 20 Feb. 2026

Sauté a mix of mushrooms and baby greens (like spinach or kale) in olive oil before dumping in two whisked eggs. —Ashley Oerman, SELF, 19 Feb. 2026

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