First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1bean
noun \ˈbēn\
Definition of BEAN
1
a : broad bean b : the seed of any of various erect or climbing plants (as of the genera Phaseolus and Vigna) of the legume family other than the broad bean c : a plant bearing beans d : an immature bean pod used as a vegetable
2
a : a valueless item b plural : the least amount <didn't know beans about it>
3
: any of various seeds or fruits that resemble beans or bean pods <coffee beans>; also : a plant producing these
4
a plural : exuberance —used in the phrase full of beans b plural : nonsense, bunkum —used in the phrase full of beans
6
: a protuberance on the upper mandible of waterfowl — see duck illustration
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Origin of BEAN
Middle English bene, from Old English bēan; akin to Old High German bōna bean
Related to BEAN
2bean
verb
: to hit (someone) on the head with something
Full Definition of BEAN
transitive verb
: to strike (a person) on the head with an object
See bean defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of BEAN
1910
BEAN Defined for Kids
bean
noun \ˈbēn\
Definition of BEAN for Kids
1
: the edible seed or pod of a bushy or climbing garden plant related to the peas and clovers
2
: a seed or fruit like a bean <coffee beans>
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