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

Ube purple yams are rich in flavonoids (phytonutrients found in plants and vegetables). —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 22 Oct. 2024

Loading your audio article Ube, the yam used to make strikingly purple desserts, is a traditional Filipino ingredient that has become ubiquitous in mainstream American grocery stores. —Ahmed Ali Akbar, Chicago Tribune, 16 Oct. 2024

The ingredients are local: The yams and sweet potatoes are from São Miguel, the alheira sausage from Santa Maria Island, and the beef brisket and other vegetables are from Bio Kairos. —Susmita Baral, Travel + Leisure, 2 Oct. 2024

For three days, locals and visitors alike bow to the almighty yam, a starchy tuber that’s not as sweet as a sweet potato but just as important in the kitchen. —Pam Leblanc, Southern Living, 19 Sep. 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