whole food

noun

: a natural food and especially an unprocessed one (such as a vegetable or fruit)

Examples of whole food in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These are reasons enough to reach for whole foods instead. Erica Sloan, SELF, 29 Jan. 2026 Protein powders and bars aren't replacements for whole foods. Caitlin Beale, Health, 29 Jan. 2026 Now in its 40th year, the foundation was established in honor of the eponymous chef who began his own culinary school, authored numerous cookbooks and proselytized cooking with whole foods. Stephanie Breijo, Los Angeles Times, 22 Jan. 2026 Balanced nutrition rich in whole foods, fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats help regulate blood sugar, cholesterol, and body weight. Care Resource, Miami Herald, 20 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for whole food

Word History

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of whole food was in 1880

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Whole food.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/whole%20food. Accessed 31 Jan. 2026.

Medical Definition

whole food

noun
: a natural food and especially an unprocessed one (as a vegetable or fruit)
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!