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Avocado Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฅ‘
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avocado

[ษ™หˆvรฆkษ™dษ™สŠ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

food item

An avocado is a large berry containing a single seed, classified botanically as a fruit. It is native to south-central Mexico and is known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. Avocados are often referred to as 'alligator pears' due to their shape and bumpy skin. They are commonly used in salads, dips, and spreads, such as the popular guacamole. Rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, avocados are considered a nutritious food choice.

Synonyms

alligator pear, butter fruit.

Examples of usage

  • I love adding sliced avocado to my salads.
  • Guacamole is made from mashed avocado and spices.
  • Avocado toast has become a popular breakfast option.
  • She spread avocado on her sandwich instead of butter.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • Avocados are often used to make guacamole, a famous dip made with mashed avocado, lime, and spices, popular in Mexican cuisine.
  • They're also a key ingredient in many vegetarian dishes, smoothies, and toasts, showing their versatility in cooking.

Health Benefits

  • Rich in healthy fats, avocados support heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels.
  • They are loaded with vitamins E, C, B6, and K, contributing to skin health and immune function.

Cultivation and Geography

  • Avocados thrive in warm climates, with Mexico being the largest producer, growing about one-third of the world's supply.
  • There are about 500 varieties of avocados, with 'Hass' being the most popular type, known for its dark, bumpy skin.

Pop Culture

  • Avocado toast became a trendy food item among millennials, often associated with brunch and social media.
  • In 2018, an avocado was humorously referred to as the 'official fruit of millennial culture', symbolizing dietary preferences.

Origin of 'avocado'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'avocado' comes from the Nahuatl (Aztec language) word 'ฤhuacatl', which also means 'testicle' due to the fruitโ€™s shape.
  • In the 17th century, Spanish explorers adopted the word as 'aguacate', which later evolved to 'avocado' in English.

The word 'avocado' comes from the Nahuatl (Aztec) word 'ฤhuacatl', which means 'testicle', possibly referring to the shape of the fruit. The term was first introduced to English in the mid-17th century. The avocado tree, Persea Americana, is believed to have originated in the southern region of Mexico and was cultivated by the ancient civilizations of Central America. Avocados were spread to the Americas and eventually to other parts of the world by European colonizers. Their unique flavor and texture have made them a favorite in various cuisines, especially in guacamole and as a healthy fat source in modern diets.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,400, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.