Chickpea Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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chickpea

[ˈtʃɪkˌpiː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

food type

Chickpea, also known as garbanzo bean, is a type of legume that is popular globally. They are high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a staple in many diets. Chickpeas can be used in various dishes, including salads, stews, and hummus.

Synonyms

Cicer arietinum, garbanzo bean.

Examples of usage

  • I made a delicious chickpea salad for lunch.
  • Chickpea curry is a popular vegetarian dish.
  • You can blend chickpeas with tahini to make hummus.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Nutrition

  • Chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein, making them popular among vegetarians and vegans.
  • They are rich in dietary fiber, which helps keep your digestive system healthy and can aid in weight management.

Culinary Uses

  • Chickpeas are the main ingredient in hummus, a popular Middle Eastern dip enjoyed worldwide.
  • They can be roasted for a crunchy snack or used in salads, soups, and stews for added texture and flavor.

Cultural Significance

  • In ancient times, they were cultivated in the Middle East and have been part of human diets for thousands of years.
  • Chickpeas are prominently featured in Mediterranean and Indian cuisines, showcasing their versatility in global cooking.

Agriculture

  • Chickpeas are a drought-resistant crop, making them suitable for cultivation in arid regions where other crops might fail.
  • They play a role in sustainable farming practices, as they can improve soil health by fixing nitrogen.

Origin of 'chickpea'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'chickpea' comes from the Latin term 'cicer,' which means 'chickpea' and relates to the name of the plant family, Fabaceae.
  • In different languages, the chickpea is called by various names: 'garbanzo' in Spanish and 'pois chiche' in French.

The word 'chickpea' comes from the Latin 'cicer', which refers to the plant's genus. The term 'chickpea' itself was derived from the French word 'chiche', which signifies the same legume. Throughout history, chickpeas have been cultivated in the Mediterranean region and the Middle East for thousands of years, being one of the earliest domesticated legumes. They have been a crucial source of nutrition due to their high protein and fiber content and have been utilized in various culinary traditions globally. Today, chickpeas are commonly used in a variety of dishes, highlighting their versatility and popularity across cultures.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,392 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.