hummus

noun

hum·​mus ˈhə-məs How to pronounce hummus (audio) ˈhu̇- How to pronounce hummus (audio)
: a paste of pureed chickpeas usually mixed with sesame oil or sesame paste and eaten as a dip or sandwich spread

Examples of hummus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But hummus can do the same job. — Nina Moskowitz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 7 June 2026 Sauces and spreads Love hummus? — ABC News, 16 June 2026 The secret to super-creamy hummus? — Hannah Agran, Midwest Living, 16 June 2026 The black-eyed peas blended with garlic, tahini, and lemon makes for a smoky, zesty, and bright dish that elevates a standard hummus. — Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for hummus

Word History

Etymology

Arabic ḥummuṣ chickpeas

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hummus was in 1949

Browse Nearby Words

Hummum
hummus
hum note
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hummus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hummus. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on hummus

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about hummus

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