rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryonionLayered bulb vegetable
noun

onion

UN-yun/ˈʌnjən/

A plant with a pungent, layered edible bulb.

The cut onion reveals its tightly packed layers.

Whole golden onion beside a cut half showing concentric layers.
Etymology
onionLatinonion; one, unity

Latin unio connects the onion with the idea of unity: its successive layers form one bulb, unlike garlic’s separate cloves.

In context

TVUP39:57
the light frying the sofrito usually here of tomato onion and garlic
FN1 | Kainsaysayan Part 1b: Exploring Philippine Food and Culinary History (Spanish Occupation)

More examples

  • The onions grew in straight rows.
  • A cut onion can make your eyes water.
  • He peeled the onion's papery skin.

Forms

onion · onions

Similar words

shallot
A related bulb with a different growth pattern and milder flavor.
scallion
Usually a young green onion harvested without a large mature bulb.