cucumber

noun

cu·​cum·​ber ˈkyü-(ˌ)kəm-bər 

: the fruit of a vine (Cucumis sativus) of the gourd family cultivated as a garden vegetable

also : this vine

Illustration of cucumber

Examples of cucumber in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Apples and pears develop brown spots, tomatoes and cucumbers can become mushy in areas, and berries may end up overly soft. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 23 May 2026

Crisp cucumbers and peppery radishes provide the perfect crunch atop classic white bread and herby cheese. —Joie Probst, Midwest Living, 23 May 2026

The Difference Matters Not all pickles are fermented, and the distinction shapes whether the cucumber in your sandwich is doing anything for your gut. —Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 23 May 2026

Trimming the suckers, from the first 2 feet above the ground, ensures the plant's energy is focused on the main vines and cucumbers, says Scott. —Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 23 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French cucumbre, from Latin cucumer-, cucumis

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing cucumber

• cucumber mosaic
• cucumber tree
• sea cucumber
• spotted cucumber beetle
• squirting cucumber

Kids Definition

cucumber

noun

cu·​cum·​ber ˈkyü-(ˌ)kəm-bər 

: the long fleshy usually many-seeded green-skinned fruit of a vine of the gourd family that is grown as a garden vegetable

also : this vine

Medical Definition

cucumber

noun

cu·​cum·​ber ˈkyü-(ˌ)kəm-bər 

: the fruit of a vine (Cucumis sativus) of the gourd family that is cultivated as a garden vegetable and that has diuretic seeds

also : this vine