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Citrus Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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citrus

[ˈsɪtrəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

fruit

A type of fruit that belongs to the family Rutaceae, characterized by a leathery rind and juicy pulp, containing a high amount of Vitamin C.

Synonyms

citrus fruit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
citrus

General term for the group of fruits that includes oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits. Used mostly in discussions about types of fruits or health benefits.

  • Citrus fruits are a great source of vitamin C
  • Growing citrus in your backyard can be a rewarding experience
citrus fruit

Specifically highlights that you're talking about fruits in the citrus family, usually used when distinguishing from other types of fruits.

  • I'm making a fruit salad with mangoes and citrus fruits
  • Citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons are my favorites

Examples of usage

  • She enjoyed a refreshing glass of citrus juice on a hot summer day.
  • Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are commonly used in cooking and baking.
Context #2 | Adjective

flavor

Having a tangy, fresh, and zesty flavor similar to that of citrus fruits.

Synonyms

tangy, zesty.

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Word Description / Examples
citrus

This term is used to refer to fruits that belong to the citrus family such as oranges, lemons, and limes. It is often used in scientific, culinary, or general contexts when speaking about these specific fruits.

  • Citrus fruits are rich in Vitamin C.
  • The recipe calls for a mix of various citrus juices.

Examples of usage

  • The salad dressing had a citrusy taste that complemented the greens perfectly.
  • The citrus notes in the wine added a refreshing touch to the overall taste.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • Citrus fruits are often used to enhance flavors in cooking, such as adding lemon juice to fish dishes.
  • In desserts, citrus zest is a popular ingredient that adds a bright flavor to cakes and pastries.
  • Fresh citrus juice is commonly used in cocktails, providing a refreshing twist to drinks.

Health Benefits

  • High in vitamin C, citrus fruits help boost the immune system and promote healthy skin.
  • The antioxidants found in citrus can support overall heart health and may reduce inflammation.
  • Eating citrus can aid digestion due to their high fiber content and natural acidity.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, citrus fruits symbolize prosperity and good fortune, often used in celebrations.
  • Various citrus festivals are held around the world, celebrating the harvest with parades and tastings.
  • In Japan, yuzu is a prized citrus fruit, often used in traditional dishes and cosmetics for its fragrance.

Pop Culture

  • Citrus flavors are popular in beverages and candies, featuring heavily in brands like Fanta and SweetTarts.
  • In literature and art, the image of citrus fruits often represents freshness and vitality.
  • The vibrant colors of citrus fruits are frequently used in advertising to convey youthfulness and energy.

Origin of 'citrus'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'citrus' comes from the Latin 'citrus', referring to the citron fruit.
  • Citrus fruits are part of the Rutaceae family, which includes hundreds of species.
  • The citrus family has ancient roots, with evidence of cultivation dating back over 4,000 years in Southeast Asia.

The word 'citrus' originates from the Latin word 'citrus', which referred to the cedar tree. Over time, the term came to be associated with the citrus fruit due to the resemblance in smell between the two. Citrus fruits have been cultivated for thousands of years, with origins in Southeast Asia. They were later introduced to Europe by Arab traders and became popular for their taste and high Vitamin C content.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,251, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.