soybean
UK: ˈsɔɪbiːn | US: ˈsɔɪbiːn
n. a legume native to East Asia, widely cultivated for its edible bean, used in food products and animal feed
n. the seed of the soybean plant, rich in protein and oil
The word "soybean" combines "soy," derived from the Japanese word "shōyu" (醤油, meaning soy sauce), and "bean," from Old English "bēan." The term reflects the plant's East Asian origins and its classification as a legume. "Soy" entered English via Dutch and Malay adaptations of the Japanese term, while "bean" has Germanic roots. The fusion highlights the crop's global culinary and agricultural significance.
Soybean oil is a common ingredient in many processed foods.
Farmers rotate soybean crops with corn to maintain soil fertility.
Tofu is made from condensed soybean milk.
The demand for soybean protein has increased in vegan diets.
China is the world's largest importer of soybeans.