Yam: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'yam' to describe a variety of edible tuberous root. They are more starchy and dry compared to sweet potatoes. Yams are commonly used in African, Caribbean, and Asian cuisines.

• Yam stew is a popular dish in many West African countries.
• They boiled the yam before mashing it.

Use 'sweet potato' to describe a root vegetable with a sweet taste and moist texture. They are often orange but can also be white, purple, or yellow and are popular in various global cuisines.

• Sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to regular fries.
• For dessert, they baked a sweet potato pie.

A general term for the thickened part of an underground stem of a plant that stores nutrients. This term encompasses both edible and non-edible varieties, including potatoes and yams.

• The gardener explained that potatoes are a type of tuber.
• They excavated several types of tubers from the soil.

This term is generic and can describe a variety of underground plant parts that are consumed as vegetables, including carrots, beets, turnips, and sweet potatoes.

• Root vegetables like carrots and beets are essential in winter dishes.
• A healthy diet should include a variety of root vegetables.

Duplicate entry, already covered in the initial explanation.

Used in scientific, botanical, or agricultural contexts to specifically refer to the genus of tropical root vegetables.

• The Dioscorea genus includes many important food crops.
• Researchers are studying the growth patterns of Dioscorea species.

This term is broader and less specific, used in gardening, farming, or general discussions about plants. It can refer to any plant cultivated for its edible parts.

• She has a variety of vegetable plants in her garden.
• The farm grows several vegetable plants, including yams and carrots.