Drupe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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drupe
[druːp ]
Definition
fruit type
A drupe is a type of fleshy fruit that has a single seed enclosed within a hard, stony covering or endocarp. Examples include almonds, cherries, olives, and peaches. Drupes are characterized by their structure, consisting of three layers: the exocarp (skin), mesocarp (flesh), and endocarp (stone).
Synonyms
fleshy fruit, stone fruit.
Examples of usage
- The cherry is a common example of a drupe.
- Almonds, while often mistaken for nuts, are technically drupes.
- In botany, drupes are important for understanding the reproductive strategies of flowering plants.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Botanical Classification
- Drupes are classified as a type of fleshy fruit and are also known as stone fruits due to their hard inner seed.
- Some common examples of drupes include cherries, plums, peaches, and almonds.
- Botswana trees, like the Marula tree, produce drupes that are not only delicious but are also significant in local cultures.
Nutritional Benefits
- Drupes often contain antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids, contributing to a healthy diet.
- They can provide dietary fiber, supporting digestive health, which is vital for overall well-being.
Culinary Uses
- Many drupes can be eaten raw, but they are also popular for making jams, jellies, and desserts.
- They can be used in savory dishes as well, providing a sweet and juicy contrast to flavors in salads and salsas.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, drupes like peaches symbolize prosperity and good fortune, especially in Chinese traditions.
- Cherry blossoms are celebrated in Japan not just for their beauty, but the fruit they produce is also a beloved staple.
Origin of 'drupe'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'drupe' comes from the Latin word 'drupa,' meaning 'overripe olive' or 'fruit with a stone.'
- In botanical terminology, the word was first used in the 19th century to categorize specific fruit types.
The term 'drupe' originates from the Latin word 'drupa', which referred to a ripe olive or fruit. This word itself can be traced back to the Ancient Greek word 'dropy', meaning a 'soft fruit' which later evolved in the context of botany to describe the specific structure of certain fruits. The classification became more defined with advancements in plant taxonomy during the 19th century, as botanists began to categorize fruits based on their morphological characteristics. Today, drupes are studied within the fields of horticulture, agriculture, and botany, illustrating their significance not only in nature but also in human agriculture and diets.