Meaning & Definition of word "Legume"

Legume

/ˈlɛɡ.juːm/

1. A type of plant in the family Fabaceae (or Leguminosae) that produces seeds in pods.
- Example: Chickpeas are a popular legume that can be used in a variety of dishes.
2. The edible seeds or pods of such plants.
- Example: Lentils are a nutritious legume that is often used in soups and stews.
3. A plant that is capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen through its root nodules.
- Example: Many legume crops improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen.
4. Plants such as peas, beans, and peanuts that belong to the legume family.
- Example: The farmer decided to plant various legume varieties to enhance crop diversity.
5. The pod containing the seeds of such plants.
- Example: The garden was filled with bright green legume pods ready to be harvested.

From Latin legumin-, legumen 'pulses, edible seeds, or vegetables'.

pea pod:

The edible seed or seed case of certain legumes, especially peas.

bean counter:

A slang term for an accountant, reflecting meticulousness similar to counting beans.

split pea:

A type of legume that is dried and peeled, often used in soups.

pulse:

Edible seeds that grow in a pod, commonly associated with legumes.

soybean:

A type of legume widely used for its oil and protein.

chickpea:

A round beige legume that is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine.

Meaning: To be in a lackluster or boring situation.

Example Sentence: That meeting was such a legume.

Meaning: Referring to someone who is dull or uninteresting.

Example Sentence: He's a bit of a legume in social gatherings.