Benne

/ˈbɛn/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A type of sesame seed used in cooking and as a garnish.
The benne seeds sprinkled on top of the salad added a delightful crunch.
A plant (Sesamum indicum) whose seeds are used for oil extraction and culinary purposes.
Benne plants thrive in warm climates and are cultivated for their nutritious seeds.
verb
To sprinkle or coat with benne seeds.
She planned to benne the bread before baking it to enhance its flavor.

Etymology

From the Bantu languages.

Common Phrases and Expressions

benne oil:
Oil extracted from sesame seeds, used for cooking.
benne cake:
A traditional dessert made with benne seeds.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Used in some regional dialects to refer colloquially to food with sesame.
That dish is full of benne; I love the flavor!