leek

noun

plural leeks
: a biennial herbaceous plant (Allium porrum synonym A. ampeloprasum var. porrum) of the amaryllis family that is related to the garlic, onion and chive and is commonly grown as an annual for its mildly pungent linear leaves and especially for its cylindrical stemlike lower sheath of leaves

Illustration of leek

Illustration of leek

Examples of leek 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.
Add leek and asparagus, seasoning with salt and pepper. Randy Graham, Oc Register, 22 Apr. 2025 The fermentable fiber – which has the best return on SCFA production – is found in fruits like apples, bananas and berries, vegetables such as onions and leeks, legumes like lentils and chickpeas, as well as grains and nuts and seeds. New Atlas, 15 Jan. 2025 Her hearty, fragrant recipe is filled with three different alliums (leeks, onion and garlic) as well as carrots and thyme, all of which bolster the thick broth, adding sweetness and depth. Ali Slagle, New York Times, 4 Jan. 2025 Biennials, such as leeks or parsley, complete their life cycle in two years. Erica Browne Grivas, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for leek

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English lēac; akin to Old High German louh leek

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of leek was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Leek.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/leek. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

leek

noun
: a garden herb closely related to the onion and grown for its mildly sharp-tasting leaves and thick stalk

More from Merriam-Webster on leek

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!