Cranberry: meaning, definitions and examples
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cranberry
[ˈkræn.bə.ri ]
Definition
Context #1 | Noun
fruit type
Cranberry refers to a small, acidic berry belonging to the genus Vaccinium, which includes several species. These berries are typically bright red and grow on low, creeping shrubs in cool temperate regions. Cranberries are known for their tart flavor and are commonly used in beverages, especially in cranberry juice, as well as in sauces and desserts. They are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making them popular for their health benefits.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I added cranberry sauce to my Thanksgiving meal.
- She drinks cranberry juice regularly for its health benefits.
- The dessert was topped with fresh cranberries.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The name 'cranberry' comes from the German word 'Kranichbeere' which means 'crane berry', named after the shape of the flower that resembles a crane’s head.
- Early settlers in North America called the fruit 'crane berry', which eventually evolved into its modern name.
Culinary Use
- Cranberries are often used in sauces, jams, and beverages, prized for their tart flavor that balances sweet foods.
- The sauce made from cranberries is a traditional dish served with turkey during Thanksgiving in the United States.
- Dried cranberries are popular as a snack and are commonly added to salads and baked goods for added sweetness and nutrition.
Health Benefits
- These berries are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body from disease and promote overall health.
- Research shows that cranberries can help prevent urinary tract infections by preventing bacteria from adhering to the bladder walls.
- Their high vitamin C content boosts the immune system, making them an excellent fruit to consume during flu season.
Cultural Significance
- Cranberries are one of the few fruits native to North America and are a key player in Native American cuisine.
- The cranberry harvest is a vital cultural event, especially in Massachusetts and Wisconsin, where festivals celebrate its agricultural importance.
- In the 17th century, cranberries were used by Native Americans both as a food source and for dyeing textiles.
Agriculture
- Cranberries grow in unique wetland areas called bogs, where water is used for harvesting and protecting the plants during cold months.
- A single cranberry bush can produce fruit for over 50 years, showing how sustainable cranberries can be in agriculture.
- The process of harvesting cranberries often involves flooding the bogs, allowing the berries to float to the surface for easier collection.