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Definition of flaxseed

flaxseed

/ˈflæk.siːd/
flax · seed

Plural:flaxseeds
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flaxseed Lexical Profile

flaxseed Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The small, flat, oval seed of the flax plant, widely consumed whole, ground, or as an oil for its high content of dietary fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.

Example

"She sprinkled a tablespoon of ground flaxseed over her morning oatmeal to add a boost of nutrition."

Word Nuance & Usage

While 'flaxseed' and 'linseed' refer to the exact same seed, 'flaxseed' is typically used in North America when describing human food and dietary supplements, whereas 'linseed' is often reserved for industrial applications like paint binders and animal feed.

Word Origin & Etymology

A compound of the Old English words 'fleax' (flax) and 'sǣd' (seed), referring directly to the reproductive unit of the Linum usitatissimum plant.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Flaxseed. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/flaxseed
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