Cucumbers are classified as both fruits and vegetables, depending on the context in which they are being discussed. Botanically, cucumbers are considered fruits because they grow from a flower and contain seeds. However, in culinary terms, cucumbers are usually classified as vegetables because they are more commonly used in savory dishes like salads and pickles. The term "vegetable" is a broad phrase that includes all other edible components of the plant, such as the roots, stems, and leaves. Therefore, cucumbers can be classified as both fruits and vegetables depending on the context in which they are being discussed.