Onion

/ˈʌnjən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A round vegetable with a thin, dry outer layer of skin that is usually brown or yellow, a white or red fleshy interior, and a strong taste and smell.

I chopped an onion to add to the salad for some extra flavor.

The bulb of the onion plant, used as a vegetable.

The recipe calls for two large onions, diced.

A term used metaphorically to refer to layers of complexity in a situation or emotion, akin to peeling an onion.

As we discussed the issue, it felt like we were peeling back the layers of an onion.

Middle English 'onion', from Old French 'oignon', from Latin 'unionem', from 'unio' meaning 'oneness'.

tear up like an onion

To cry easily or profusely.

layered like an onion

Referring to complexity or multiple levels of meaning.

chives

A herb that belongs to the onion family, used for flavoring.

shallot

A type of onion with a sweeter taste, often used in cooking.

leek

A vegetable related to the onion, known for its mild flavor.

Onion as a metaphor for someone or something with layers.

He's an onion, you peel back one layer and find another mystery.

Used in some regions to describe a dull or boring person.

Don't be such an onion, lighten up!