truffle

noun

truf·​fle ˈtrə-fəl  ˈtrü- 

1

a

: the dark or light edible subterranean fruiting body of several European ascomycetous fungi (especially genus Tuber)

also : any of various similar fruiting bodies of related fungi

b

: a fungus that produces truffles

2

: a candy made of chocolate, butter, sugar, and sometimes liqueur shaped into balls and often coated with cocoa

Examples of truffle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Sherman described how the sweetness of white chocolate confections, like bonbons or truffles, complements the delicate floral essence of herbal tea, or the mild flavor of chamomile. —Eve Glover, Fox News, 16 Feb. 2025

There’s something about stepping off the slopes at Aspen Mountain — my favorite American ski town — and heading straight to Ajax Tavern for truffle fries and an espresso martini that makes the whole trip feel complete. —Becca Blond, Travel + Leisure, 12 Feb. 2025

Ironworks Hotel The date night package features champagne, chocolate truffles and rose petals in a romantic room. —Justin L. MacK, Axios, 11 Feb. 2025

Chocolates are essential for a romantic Valentine’s Day celebration, and these chocolate truffles offer an assortment that can appeal to nearly everyone. —Bestreviews, The Mercury News, 4 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

modification of Middle French truffe, from Old Occitan trufa, from Vulgar Latin *tufera; akin to Latin tuber swelling, truffle — more at tuber

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

truffle

noun

truf·​fle ˈtrəf-əl  ˈtrüf- 

: the dark or light wrinkled fruiting body of a European fungus that grows in the ground

also : a fungus that produces truffles