flaxseed

noun

flax·​seed ˈflak(s)-ˌsēd How to pronounce flaxseed (audio)
: the small seed of flax (especially Linum usitatissimum) used especially as a source of oil, as a demulcent and emollient, and as a dietary supplement

called also linseed

Examples of flaxseed in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
When flaxseeds are pressed into oil, the omega-3 content is so high that flaxseed oil is often used as an omega-3 supplement.34 The ALA content in 1 tablespoon of flax seeds is around 2.35 grams (g). Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 27 June 2025 In addition to being available in a variety of supplements, dietary options to improve omega-3s intake include fatty fish, walnuts, flaxseeds and chia seeds. Daryl Austin, USA Today, 7 June 2025 Aside from the obvious fact that all of the nutrients in flaxseeds are essential for our general health, the compounds in flaxseeds perform several specific functions as well. Christina Pérez, Vogue, 29 May 2025 This formula also contains green microalgae to further boost collagen and elastin, plus hydrating, smoothing flaxseed. Kristin Canning, SELF, 8 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for flaxseed

Word History

First Known Use

1562, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of flaxseed was in 1562

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Cite this Entry

“Flaxseed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/flaxseed. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

flaxseed

noun
flax·​seed ˈflak(s)-ˌsēd How to pronounce flaxseed (audio)
: the small seed of flax used as a source of linseed oil and in medicinal preparations

Medical Definition

flaxseed

noun
flax·​seed ˈflak(s)-ˌsēd How to pronounce flaxseed (audio)
: the small seed of flax (especially Linum usitatissimum) used especially as a source of oil, as a demulcent and emollient in treating inflammatory conditions of the respiratory, intestinal, and urinary passages, and as a dietary supplement

called also linseed

More from Merriam-Webster on flaxseed

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