bean
bean Lexical Profile
• noun
An edible seed, typically kidney-shaped, that grows in long pods on various leguminous plants and is widely consumed as a vegetable or source of protein.
"We planted a row of green beans in the garden to harvest for summer salads."
Any of various other seeds or dry fruits that resemble leguminous beans in shape, such as those of coffee, cocoa, or vanilla.
"She ground the roasted coffee beans every morning to make fresh espresso."
North American A person's head, specifically used in informal contexts when referring to someone being struck by an object.
"The batter had to duck quickly when the pitcher threw a fastball right at his bean."
• verb
North American To strike someone on the head with a thrown object (especially a baseball).
"The pitcher was ejected from the game after he intentionally beaned the opposing batter."
• Rhymes for bean
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old English 'bēan', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'boon' and German 'Bohne'.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.