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Lentil Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lentil

[ˈlɛn.təl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

food item

Lentils are small, lens-shaped legumes that come in various colors, including green, brown, yellow, and red. They are a rich source of protein and fiber, making them a staple in many vegetarian and vegan diets. Lentils cook relatively quickly compared to other legumes and are often used in soups, stews, and salads.

Synonyms

legume, pulse.

Examples of usage

  • I made a delicious lentil soup for dinner.
  • Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein.
  • You can add lentils to salads for extra nutrition.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Nutrition

  • Lentils are packed with protein, making them a great food for vegetarians and vegans.
  • They are rich in fiber, which helps keep your digestive system healthy.
  • Low in fat and high in iron, they can help you feel full and energized.

Cultural Significance

  • In ancient Egypt, lentils were considered one of the oldest cultivated crops, often included in tombs for the afterlife.
  • In India, lentils are a staple food and are used in many traditional dishes, like dal.

Cooking & Uses

  • Lentils cook faster than many other legumes and do not require soaking, making them convenient for busy cooks.
  • They come in various colors: green, brown, red, and black, each with its own flavor and cooking time.

Agriculture

  • Lentils are often planted in rotation with grains to improve soil health, as they can naturally enrich the soil with nitrogen.
  • They are drought-resistant, making them an essential crop in regions with limited water supply.

Origin of 'lentil'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'lens,' meaning 'lentil,' which is as old as Roman times.
  • In many languages, the word for lentil is similar; for instance, it's 'lentille' in French and 'lenticchia' in Italian.

The word 'lentil' comes from the Latin word 'lens,' which means 'lentil' or 'lens-shaped.' This etymology reflects the distinctive shape of lentils, which resemble small lenses. The use of lentils in cooking dates back thousands of years, with evidence of their consumption in ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Greeks. Lentils were one of the first crops to be domesticated in the Near East and are thought to have been cultivated over 8,000 years ago. They have played a significant role in the diets of many cultures, particularly in the Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and South Asian regions, due to their nutritional value and adaptability to different growing conditions. Today, lentils are widely grown and consumed around the world, appreciated not only for their health benefits but also for their versatility in various culinary dishes.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,495, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.