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.
Over the past year, fiber has muscled its way into the wellness spotlight, giving protein some competition as more Americans turn to whole foods that support digestion, metabolism and gut health. Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 3 Jan. 2026 Most contain just one type of fiber and don’t replicate the complex, diverse fibers found in whole foods. Ezekiel J. Emanuel, CNBC, 2 Jan. 2026 Not Very Nutrient-Dense Pretzels don't offer many vitamins, minerals, or antioxidants compared to whole foods like fruit or yogurt. Brianna Tobritzhofer, Health, 30 Dec. 2025 Protein shakes are convenient, but most people can meet their daily protein needs through a balanced diet rich in high-protein whole foods. Sarah Jividen, Verywell Health, 29 Dec. 2025 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 4 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!