Langimage
English

plantain

|plan/tain|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈplæn.tɪn/

🇬🇧

/ˈplæn.teɪn/

starchy fruit or herbaceous plant

Etymology
Etymology Information

'plantain' originates from Spanish, specifically the word 'plátano,' where 'plátano' meant 'banana.'

Historical Evolution

'plátano' transformed into the English word 'plantain' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'banana,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a starchy fruit or a type of herbaceous plant.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a tropical plant of the banana family, grown for its starchy fruit, which is typically cooked before eating.

Plantains are often fried or boiled in many Caribbean dishes.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a type of herbaceous plant, often found in lawns and roadsides, with broad leaves and small flowers.

The plantain is a common weed in many gardens.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/03/01 18:29