# alfalfa

/ˌæɫˈfæɫfə/ (US) · /ælfˈælfɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/alfalfa
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a tall plant with small green leaves that grows in many parts of the world. It is very important for feeding horses and cows because it is full of protein.

For teachers: a perennial leguminous plant, Medicago sativa, widely cultivated as a forage crop for livestock.

## Examples

- The farmer grows alfalfa to feed his cows.
- Because of its high protein content, alfalfa is a staple in the diet of many large animals like horses and sheep.
- The rotation of alfalfa with other crops helps improve soil fertility by fixing atmospheric nitrogen, making it a vital component of sustainable agricultural practices.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.