beans
n. countable A1 Beginner US //ˈbinz// UK //bˈiːnz// beans
n. small, hard seeds from a plant that you can cook and eat. They are a healthy food and come in many shapes and colors.
n. the edible seeds of various leguminous plants, typically used as a source of protein and fiber. Often used in the plural form when referring to the food item.
I like to eat beans with rice for dinner.
The chef soaked the dried beans overnight to ensure they would be soft enough for the stew.
Agricultural scientists are developing drought-resistant varieties of beans to help farmers maintain stable yields in increasingly arid climates.
Usage
Usually used in the plural; the singular 'bean' refers to a single seed or the plant itself.