winter squash

noun

1. any of several varieties of Cucurbita maxima or C. moschata that mature in late autumn and are used, when ripe, as a vegetable.

Word History and Origins

Origin of winter squash¹

First recorded in 1740–50

Example Sentences

Root vegetables — like carrots, onions, potatoes and beets — winter squashes, cruciferous vegetables and greens are just a few notable cold-weather favorites.

From Salon

In colder months, you can warm up a salad by tossing in a few cooked vegetables like sauteed mushrooms or winter squash and/or beans or seared tempeh made from fermented soy.

From National Geographic

Found year-round, pumpkin and winter squash varieties enjoy a pronounced spike in fall soups and sides, Thanksgiving sweets and post-Labor Day snacks of all sorts.

From Salon

Firmer vegetables, such as winter squash, or more potent ones, such as onions, will benefit from precooking.

From Washington Post

Make this hearty and comforting winter squash with rice soup.

From New York Times