pearl millet

noun

1. a tall grass, Pennisetum americanum (or P. glaucum ), cultivated in Africa, Asia, and the southern U.S. for its edible seeds and as a forage plant.

pearl millet

noun

1. a tall grass, Pennisetum glaucum, cultivated in Africa, E Asia, and the southern US as animal fodder and for its pearly white seeds, which are used as grain

Word History and Origins

Origin of pearl millet¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

People grow the cereal grain sorghum and pearl millet, crops that are drought resistant and offer a chance at harvests, but even they failed to withstand the conditions this year.

From Seattle Times

His team’s research ultimately found that urine, either with animal manure or alone, increased yields of pearl millet, the staple crop, by about 30 percent.

From New York Times

By day, Sikka worked hard harvesting wheat and pearl millet and feeding animals.

From Washington Post

As for sorghum and pearl millet, Ms Msomi said they are "high-energy" grains which contain carbohydrates, protein, and are low in fat.

From BBC

Several of the continent's traditional food crops got their start there: a cereal called pearl millet and Africa's own version of rice.

From Science Magazine