Drupes Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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drupes
[druːp ]
Definition
fruit
Drupes are a type of fruit in which a fleshy outer part surrounds a shell with a seed inside. The outer fleshy part is typically sweet and juicy, making drupes a popular choice for eating fresh or using in desserts.
Synonyms
drupelet, stone fruit.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| drupes |
Scientific or botanical discussions focusing on fruit types often use 'drupes' to describe fruits with a single seed enclosed in a hard shell, surrounded by fleshy fruit. Common drupes include cherries, peaches, and plums.
|
| stone fruit |
Commonly used in culinary contexts and everyday speech to describe fruits with a large, hard pit or 'stone' inside, stone fruit is a more everyday term. Examples include peaches, nectarines, and cherries.
|
| drupelet |
'Drupelet' is used specifically when discussing the small individual segments of aggregate fruits like blackberries and raspberries. Each segment in these fruits is a tiny drupe, or drupelet.
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Examples of usage
- Peaches, plums, cherries, and olives are all examples of drupes.
- The drupe of a peach contains a hard pit inside the juicy fruit.
- Drupes are often used in jams and pies due to their sweet flavor.
- The drupe of an olive is pressed to extract olive oil.
- Some drupes, like cherries, have a single large seed inside.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Botany
- Drupes are classified as a type of fleshy fruit, where the outer layer is soft and the inner layer contains a hard pit.
- Common examples of drupes include peaches, cherries, plums, and olives, each varying in size and taste.
- The stone of drupes is crucial for reproduction; it protects the seed inside until it can germinate.
Culinary Uses
- Many drupes are enjoyed fresh, but they can also be dried or made into jams, jellies, and desserts.
- In Mediterranean cuisine, olives (which are drupes) play a significant role, often used in salads and to make olive oil.
- Peach drupes are famously used in cobblers and pies, creating sweet and comforting desserts.
Nutrition
- Drupes like cherries and plums are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, promoting overall health.
- Eating a variety of drupes can aid digestion and provide hydration due to their high water content.
- Many drupes contain dietary fiber, which is good for gut health and can help with regular digestion.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, drupes are considered symbols of prosperity and abundance; for instance, peaches represent good luck in Chinese culture.
- Cherries are often associated with the arrival of spring, celebrated during festivals in various parts of the world.
- The ritual of picking fresh berries, including drupes, is popular in many regions, fostering community and family bonding.
Environmental Impact
- The cultivation of drupe fruits can contribute positively to local ecosystems by providing food for wildlife and encouraging biodiversity.
- Certain drupe-bearing trees, like olives, can thrive in poor soils, making them ideal for sustainable agriculture.
- However, massive plantations of drupes can lead to monocultures, which may threaten local flora and fauna.
Origin of 'drupes'
The term 'drupe' originates from the Latin word 'drupa', meaning 'overripe olive'. The concept of drupes as a type of fruit has been recognized for centuries, with various drupe fruits being cultivated and enjoyed by different cultures around the world. Drupes have played a significant role in human diets and agriculture, providing essential nutrients and flavors.