First Known Use: 1555
Dictionary
cassava
noun cas·sa·va \kə-ˈsä-və\
: a tropical plant with thick roots that are used to make small white grains (called tapioca) that are used in cooking
Full Definition of CASSAVA
: any of several American plants (genus Manihot, especially M. esculenta) of the spurge family grown in the tropics for their edible tuberous roots which yield a nutritious starch; also : the root — compare tapioca 1
See cassava defined for English-language learners
See cassava defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of CASSAVA
Spanish cazabe cassava bread, from Taino caçábi
Learn More About CASSAVA
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up cassava? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).