legume
UK: ˈlɛɡjuːm | US: ˈlɛɡjuːm
n. a seed, pod, or other edible part of a plant of the pea family, used as food
n. (botany) a plant of the family Fabaceae (or Leguminosae), typically bearing nitrogen-fixing nodules on its roots
legume = leg<select> + ume<noun suffix>
- leg<select>: From Latin legere ("to gather, select"), referring to the act of picking or harvesting pods.
- ume<noun suffix>: A Latin-derived suffix forming nouns, often indicating a result or product.
Etymology Origin:
The word legume traces back to Latin legumen, derived from legere ("to gather"), reflecting the agricultural practice of collecting seed pods. The term evolved in French (légume) before entering English, retaining its botanical and culinary associations. The root leg- subtly connects to the idea of "selection," as legumes were historically gathered as staple crops.
Lentils and beans are common types of legume.
Farmers rotate crops like wheat with legume to enrich the soil.
This soup is made with fresh legume and herbs.
Legume proteins are a vital part of vegetarian diets.
The legume family includes over 18,000 species worldwide.