lentil

noun

len·​til ˈlen-tᵊl 

1

: a widely cultivated Eurasian annual leguminous plant (Vicia lens synonym Lens culinaris) with flattened edible seeds and leafy stalks used as fodder

2

: the seed of the lentil

Examples of lentil in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Key sources of fiber, both soluble and insoluble, include seeds, beans, lentils, whole grains and vegetables. —Kaitlin Sullivan, NBC news, 29 Apr. 2026

Switch to whole-wheat or brown-rice pasta, or to legume pasta made from chickpeas, red lentils, or black beans. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 29 Apr. 2026

This can mean eating more fiber-rich foods, such as beans, lentils, vegetables, fruit, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. —Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 29 Apr. 2026

Enjoy the contrast of soft butternut squash, tender lentils, and crunchy pomegranate seeds. —Hannah Agran, Midwest Living, 28 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French lentille, from Latin lenticula, diminutive of lent-, lens

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for lentil

• dental
• ental
• gentle
• mental
• rental
• accidental
• compartmental
• continental
• detrimental
• elemental
• fundamental
• governmental

Kids Definition

lentil

noun

len·​til ˈlent-ᵊl 

: a Eurasian plant of the legume family widely grown for its flattened edible seeds and leafy stalks used as food for cattle

also : its seed