Definition

Noun: 1. A tropical leguminous vine: "Manila bean" refers to a specific type of annual, twining vine (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus) characterized by tuberous roots, clusters of purplish flowers, and distinctive pods with four jagged, wing-like ridges. It is native to the Old World tropics.

Usage Notes

• "Manila bean" is a common name for a plant species. It is typically used in botanical, agricultural, or culinary contexts.
• It is often discussed alongside its other common names, such as "winged bean" or "goa bean," which refer to the same plant.
• As a compound noun, it is treated as a singular, countable noun (e.g., , ).

Examples

• Noun:
  • The Manila bean is valued for its edible tubers, leaves, flowers, and pods.
  • Farmers in Southeast Asia often cultivate the Manila bean for its nutritional value.
  • Botanists study the Manila bean as a promising crop for tropical regions.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used attributively (like an adjective) to describe other nouns related to the plant.
  • We harvested Manila bean pods for the stir-fry.
  • He is an expert in Manila bean cultivation.

Variants and Related Words

• Winged bean: The most widely used synonym for "Manila bean."
• Goa bean: Another common name for the same plant.
• Asparagus pea: A name sometimes used, highlighting the edible pods.
• Four-angled bean: A descriptive name referencing the pod's shape.
• Psophocarpus tetragonolobus: The scientific (Latin) name for the species.

Synonyms

• Winged bean
• Goa bean

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Manila bean pod: Specifically refers to the edible, winged fruit of the plant.
• Manila bean plant: Refers to the entire vine.

Noun

1. a tuberous twining annual vine bearing clusters of purplish flowers and pods with four jagged wings; Old World tropics