A starchy tuberous root of any of various climbing plants of the genus Dioscorea, cultivated for food in warm regions. The farmer harvested a large yam from his garden.
The plant that produces the yam root, often grown in tropical and subtropical regions. Yam plants require a warm climate to thrive.
A sweet potato, especially in the United States, where the term is often used interchangeably. For Thanksgiving, we always serve candied yams as a side dish.