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Okra Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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okra

[หˆoสŠ.kษนษ™ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

food vegetable

Okra, also known as lady's finger or gumbo, is a flowering plant in the mallow family. It is cultivated primarily for its edible green seed pods. The pods are long and slender and have a slight mucilaginous texture when cooked, making them popular in many cuisines, especially in southern U.S. and West African dishes. Okra is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber. It can be prepared in various ways, including frying, boiling, or pickling.

Synonyms

gumbo, lady's finger.

Examples of usage

  • I added okra to my gumbo for that extra flavor.
  • Fried okra is a popular side dish in Southern cooking.
  • We are planting okra in our garden this summer.
  • Okra can be quite slimy when cooked, but it adds great taste.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • Okra is a key ingredient in dishes like gumbo, which originated from Creole cuisine.
  • The vegetable is known for its mucilaginous texture, which helps thicken dishes when cooked.
  • It's often used in African, Middle Eastern, and Southern U.S. cuisines, showcasing its versatility.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Rich in vitamins C and K, okra helps boost the immune system and supports bone health.
  • It contains fiber, making it great for digestion and keeping you full.
  • This vegetable is low in calories, making it a healthy addition to various meals.

Cultivation

  • Okra grows best in warm climates, requiring temperatures above 70ยฐF (21ยฐC) to thrive.
  • It blooms with beautiful yellow flowers before producing the green pods we eat.
  • Farmers often rotate okra with other crops to maintain soil health and reduce pests.

Cultural Significance

  • Okra is staple food in several cultures, reflecting agricultural practices and food traditions.
  • In Southern U.S. culture, it plays an integral role in soul food, representing resilience and community.
  • Fried okra is often a beloved snack or appetizer, showcasing its popularity across various regions.

Origin of 'okra'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'okra' comes from the West African term 'แปkร rรก'.
  • It was brought to the United States during the 19th century via the transatlantic slave trade.
  • In some regions, it's also known as 'lady's fingers' because of its slender shape.

The word 'okra' traces its origins back to the West African Akan language, where it is called 'nkruma' and 'okro.' The plant was brought to the Americas by enslaved Africans, where it became a staple in various regional cuisines. In the 19th century, okra became widely recognized in the U.S., particularly in Southern cooking. The term 'lady's finger' is commonly used in British English, reflecting the long, slender shape of the pods. This versatility in naming and the plant's adaptation across different cultures showcase its significant role in global gastronomy. Today, okra is celebrated not only for its culinary uses but also for its nutritional benefits.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,553, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.