plant-based

American  

[plant-beyst] / ˈplæntˌbeɪst /

adjective

1. relating to or being a food consisting entirely or mainly of whole or minimally processed plant parts, such as vegetables, fruits, grains, nuts, legumes, and seeds: the health benefits of a plant-based diet and lifestyle.

   plant-based burgers that taste like meat;

   the health benefits of a plant-based diet and lifestyle.

2. relating to or being a medicine, fuel, etc., made from plants or plant matter.

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Etymology

Origin of plant-based

Coined in 1980 by Thomas Colin Campbell (born 1934), U.S. biochemist

Example Sentences

I live down the street from a Mr. Charlie’s, which is like a plant-based version of McDonald’s.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

It is best known for its quirky, colourful hair claw clips, made from a plant-based alternative to conventional, petroleum plastic.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

The study highlights how modern techniques can unlock the medical potential of plant-based chemicals.

From Science Daily • Apr. 21, 2026

But the authors’ enthusiasm for plant-based imitation meat comes as that industry is struggling.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

Next is competition — Rival food companies quickly rolled out their own plant-based fares to try to ride Beyond Meat’s coattails.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 12, 2026