English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun

linseed

LIN-seed
Quiz me More like this

Linseed (noun) means the seed of the flax plant, which is used to make linseed oil. Example: “She sprinkled a spoonful of linseed over her porridge.”

noun
1
The seed of the flax plant, which is used to make linseed oil.
"She sprinkled a spoonful of linseed over her porridge."
"The painter treated the wooden handle with linseed oil."
"Linseeds are small, shiny and brown."

How to use linseed

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe small seed of the flax plant, also known as flaxseed.

When to use it

Linseed is a neutral, everyday word used in cooking, gardening and woodworking.

Memory tip

Linseed is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable, like the name Lin followed by seed.

Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
linseed oil ground linseed a spoonful of linseed
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like linseed.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Test yourself on “linseed” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

She sprinkled a spoonful of _____ over her porridge.

Etymology

Linseed comes from Middle English, which took it from Old English words meaning flax and seed. The first part is related to the word linen.

Origin: Middle English

flaxseed

Rhymes for linseed

See all rhymes for linseed →

Frequently asked questions

What is linseed?
Linseed is the seed of the flax plant. It is also the source of linseed oil.
Is linseed the same as flaxseed?
Yes, flaxseed is another name for linseed. Both words refer to the seed of the flax plant.
Is linseed countable or uncountable?
It can be both. You can say linseed for the seed in general, or linseeds for individual seeds.
What is the meaning of linseed?
"linseed" (noun) means the seed of the flax plant, which is used to make linseed oil.