yam

noun

ˈyam 

1

: the edible starchy tuberous root of various plants (genus Dioscorea of the family Dioscoreaceae) used as a staple food in tropical areas

also : a plant producing yams

2

: a moist usually orange-fleshed sweet potato

Examples of yam in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Mash up ground beef for tacos in the pan, break apart your softened potatoes, and crush yams with this handy device. —Wendy Vazquez, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Nov. 2024

Antioxidants in yams can help combat cancer and inflammation associated with conditions such as heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. 8. —Maxine Lipner, Verywell Health, 30 Sep. 2024

Think pumpkin pie, yams, Thanksgiving salad, breakfast casserole, sweet potato hash, soup bowls and glazed carrots. —Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 18 Oct. 2024

The coffee beverage blends layers of espresso and milk with a purple marshmallow ube (purple yam) flavor. —Chad Murphy, The Enquirer, 2 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

earlier iname, from Portuguese inhame & Spanish ñame, of African origin; akin to Fulani nyami to eat

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

yam

noun

ˈyam 

1

: an edible starchy root that is an important food in tropical areas

also : a plant producing yams

2

: a sweet potato with moist usually orange flesh