sorghum

noun

sor·​ghum ˈsȯr-gəm 

1

: any of an economically important genus (Sorghum) of Old World tropical grasses similar to corn in habit but with the spikelets in pairs on a hairy rachis

especially : any of various cultivars (such as grain sorghum or sorgo) derived from a wild form (S. bicolor synonym S. vulgare)

2

: syrup from the juice of a sorgo that resembles cane syrup

Illustration of sorghum

• sorghum 1

Examples of sorghum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Typically fed to livestock in countries such as the United States, scientists are uncovering hidden nutritional benefits that could make sorghum a great addition to a healthy diet. —Nina Turner, Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2024

By working with local farmers to grow crops like high-iron beans and sorghum— both resilient to climate change— the program is helping to create a sustainable supply chain that benefits both students and smallholder farmers. —Daphne Ewing-Chow, Forbes, 23 Oct. 2024

The downtown distillery and bar uses the original Great Depression-era recipe for its moonshine, but has also expanded to produce vodka, whiskey, sorghum rum, and beer. —Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 6 Sep. 2024

Health-forward organic ingredients such as amaranth and jowar (sorghum) are also incorporated into the dishes. —Kaila Yu, Forbes, 25 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Italian sorgo, from Vulgar Latin *Syricum (granum), literally, Syrian grain

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing sorghum

• grain sorghum
• sweet sorghum

Kids Definition

sorghum

noun

sor·​ghum ˈsȯr-gəm 

1

: any of a genus of Old World tropical grasses that look like corn

especially : one cultivated for grain, forage, or syrup

2

: syrup made from a sorghum