A samara (/səˈmɑːrə/, UK also: /ˈsæmər-/) is a winged achene, a type of fruit in which a flattened wing of fibrous, papery tissue develops from the ovary wall. A samara is a simple dry fruit, and is indehiscent (not opening along a seam).

Samara is also known as one of the Russian aircraft engineering centers. This is confirmed by such landmarks as the Monument- IL -2 Plane and the R-7 rocket - the legend of the Soviet astronautics.

The meaning of the name Samara can vary depending on the culture and language it is derived from. In Russian, it is thought to mean “guardian” or “protector,” which is fitting given the name's association with the ancient city of Samaria.

Botanists began using the term "samara" in the late 16th century. In Latin, it means literally "seed of the elm."