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Legumes Meaning: Definition and Examples

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legumes

[lɪˈɡjuːmz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

plant food

Legumes are a class of vegetables that include beans, lentils, peas, and peanuts. They are known for their high protein and fiber content, making them a staple in many diets worldwide. Legumes play a significant role in agriculture as they can improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation.

Synonyms

beans, peas, pulses.

Examples of usage

  • I added legumes to my salad for extra protein.
  • Legumes such as chickpeas are great for vegetarian dishes.
  • You should include legumes in your diet for their health benefits.

Interesting Facts

Nutritional Value

  • Legumes are rich in protein and fiber, making them an excellent food choice for vegetarians and vegans.
  • They are also a great source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, folate, and potassium.

Culinary Uses

  • Common legumes, like chickpeas and black beans, are staples in various cuisines worldwide, from Middle Eastern hummus to Mexican tacos.
  • In some cultures, legumes are used to make traditional dishes, such as dal in India or feijoada in Brazil.

Environmental Impact

  • Legumes can improve soil health by fixing nitrogen, which helps other plants grow better.
  • Eating legumes can be more environmentally sustainable compared to animal-based proteins, as they require fewer resources to produce.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, legumes symbolize prosperity and are often eaten during celebrations and festivals.
  • Legumes have been used in folklore and stories, representing nourishment and community bonding over shared meals.

Origin of 'legumes'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'legume' comes from the Latin word 'legumen', which means 'pulse' or 'bean'.
  • Historically, legumes have been cultivated for thousands of years, with records dating back to ancient Egypt and Greece.

The word 'legume' originates from the Latin word 'legumen', meaning 'pulse' or 'bean'. The Latin term is derived from 'legere', which means 'to gather or to pick'. The word 'legume' began to be used in English during the 17th century to denote plants that produce pods, which often contain seeds like peas and beans. The broader classification of legumes encompasses many species across various continents, highlighting their diversity and importance in both culinary and agricultural contexts. As food sources, legumes have been cultivated for thousands of years, playing a critical role in sustainable farming practices due to their ability to enrich soil nutrients.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,088, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.