rind

noun

ˈrīnd How to pronounce rind (audio)
dialectal
ˈrīn How to pronounce rind (audio)
1
: the bark of a tree
2
: a usually hard or tough outer layer : peel, crust
rinded adjective

Examples of rind in a Sentence

the rind of a watermelon the rind of a cheese
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.
Gallons of fermenting fruit rinds for the vibrant aguas frescas chill near the array of drying chilies and madre tallow mixtures, but the tight confines mean some sacrifices. Matthew Odam, Austin American Statesman, 2 Apr. 2026 Recipes for pickled cucumbers, peaches, and even watermelon rinds filled the pages of early American cookbooks. Literary Hub, 31 Mar. 2026 The petite fruits have an edible rind that’s sweeter than the flesh itself. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 14 Mar. 2026 Creamy with a smooth, semisoft consistency and edible rind, Saint Paulin cheese makes a great addition to any charcuterie board or cheese plate. Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 3 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rind

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English; akin to Old High German rinda bark, and probably to Old English rendan to rend

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rind.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rind. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

rind

noun
: the bark of a tree
also : a usually hard or tough outer layer (as the skin of a fruit)

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