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Kiwi Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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kiwi

[ˈkiːwi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

fruit type

Kiwi refers to a small, brown, fuzzy fruit with bright green flesh and tiny black seeds. It is known for its sweet and slightly tangy taste. Often eaten fresh, kiwis can also be used in salads, smoothies, and desserts. Their vibrant color adds a delightful visual appeal to dishes. Nutrient-rich, kiwis are a great source of vitamin C and dietary fiber.

Synonyms

Chinese gooseberry, kiwifruit.

Examples of usage

  • I added kiwi to my fruit salad.
  • Kiwi is rich in vitamin C.
  • Have you tried the kiwi smoothie?
  • She loves the sweet flavor of kiwi.
Context #2 | Noun

bird species

The kiwi is a flightless bird native to New Zealand, recognized for its long beak and small body. Kiwis are nocturnal and are known for their unique, egg-laying habits, which produce some of the largest eggs in relation to body size among birds. They are a symbol of New Zealand and are often used in cultural references and national identity. Being flightless, they have adapted to ground living and are primarily insectivorous.

Synonyms

Apteryx.

Examples of usage

  • The kiwi is an iconic bird in New Zealand.
  • We saw a kiwi at the wildlife sanctuary.
  • Kiwis are nocturnal and hard to spot.
  • This region is home to many endangered kiwi birds.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary

  • Kiwi is rich in vitamin C and dietary fiber, making it a popular choice in healthy diets around the world.
  • It can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, such as salads, desserts, or even as a meat tenderizer due to its natural enzymes.
  • In addition to being eaten fresh, kiwis can be blended into smoothies or used to flavor sauces.

Biodiversity

  • There are more than 50 varieties of kiwi, with differences in size, flavor, and skin type, including yellow and red-fleshed varieties.
  • Kiwi vines can produce fruit for up to 30 years, showcasing the longevity and resilience of this species.
  • The fruit plays a role in boosting local economies in several regions, notably New Zealand and California.

Cultural Significance

  • The kiwi bird and fruit are often associated with New Zealand culture, symbolizing national pride and identity.
  • In some cultures, giving a kiwi as a gift is seen as a sign of friendship and hospitality.
  • Kiwis are celebrated in various festivals around the world, highlighting their agricultural importance and culinary versatility.

Gardening

  • Kiwi plants are vigorous climbers, often needing support like trellises to grow properly.
  • They are typically dioecious, meaning that male and female plants are needed for fruit production.
  • Growing kiwis requires a temperate climate; they thrive best in areas with cold winters and warm summers.

Origin of 'kiwi'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'kiwi' comes from the Maori language in New Zealand, where it refers to the native flightless bird, symbolizing the country.
  • Originally, the fruit was called 'Chinese gooseberry' before being renamed Kiwi in the 1960s for marketing purposes.
  • The bird kiwi is an important national symbol of New Zealand, leading to the fruit being named after it.

The word 'kiwi' originally referred to the brown, flightless bird of New Zealand, which is endemic to the country. The name comes from the Maori language, where it was used to describe the bird due to its characteristic calls and appearance. With the introduction of the fruit to the international market, the kiwi fruit also adopted this name, derived from its fuzzy exterior that resembles the bird in appearance. The fruit was initially called 'Chinese gooseberry' when first marketed in the United States in the early 20th century, but it was rebranded in the 1960s to 'kiwifruit' to distinguish it and enhance its appeal, leveraging the bird's popularity. The kiwifruit is now cultivated in various regions around the world, and its association with New Zealand remains strong.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,069 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.