onion

noun

on·​ion ˈən-yən 

plural onions

1

: a widely cultivated Asian herbaceous plant (Allium cepa) of the amaryllis family that has a pungent edible bulb and that is closely related to the garlic, chive, and leek

also : its bulb

2

: any of various usually ornamental alliums (such as Allium amplectens or A. caeruleum) related to the onion

oniony

ˈən-yə-nē 

adjective

an oniony flavor

oniony meatloaf

Examples of onion in a Sentence

The recipe calls for chopped onions.

He is growing onions in the garden this year.

The recipe calls for chopped onion.

Recent Examples on the Web

Onion Quercetin, a flavonoid in onions, helps inhibit inflammation-causing agents in arthritis. —Amanda MacMillan, Health, 1 June 2024

Egg noodles stir-fried with red bell peppers, onions broccoli and Chinese broccoli were smothered in a sumptuous garlic-chili-soy sauce along with chicken, beef or shrimp. —Benjy Egel, Sacramento Bee, 31 May 2024

As a refresher, seasoned salt is a blend of salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. —Karla Walsh, Southern Living, 31 May 2024

It’s topped with melty Swiss cheese, a pile of peppery arugula and rich, caramelized onions. —Rachel Bernhard, Journal Sentinel, 21 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French oignon, from Latin union-, unio

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing onion

• Bermuda onion
• green onion
• onion dome
• onion ring
• pearl onion
• sea onion
• Spanish onion
• spring onion

Kids Definition

onion

noun

on·​ion ˈən-yən 

: a widely grown Asian herb related to the lilies and having edible bulbs that have a sharp odor and taste and are used as a vegetable and to season foods

also : its bulb