lettuce
UK[ˈletɪs]US[ˈletɪs]
n
a plant with large green leaves that are eaten raw, especially in salads
Etymology
the word "lettuce" has a journey that traces back to the latin "lactūca", itself derived from "lac", meaning milk. this naming is a direct reference to the plant's characteristic milky white sap or juice. the term passed into old french as "laitues" before being adopted into middle english. the core logic of its name, connecting the plant to milk based on its sap, has been preserved from its ancient latin roots into its modern english form, even though the spelling and pronunciation have evolved.
Analysis
the entire word "lettuce" is a simplex loanword. it entered english from old french "laitues", which came from latin "lactūca", derived from "lac" (milk), referring to the plant's milky sap.
Examples
she added crisp lettuce and tomatoes to the sandwich.
the recipe calls for one head of romaine lettuce.
he grows his own lettuce in the backyard garden.