Papaya Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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papaya
[pəˈpaɪə ]
Definition
fruit type
Papaya is a tropical fruit known for its sweet, musky flavor and vibrant orange flesh. It is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as beneficial enzymes that aid digestion. Often consumed fresh or used in smoothies, papayas are also popular in a variety of culinary dishes.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I enjoyed a refreshing papaya smoothie for breakfast.
- She added papaya to her fruit salad for extra sweetness.
- The local market had fresh papayas on sale.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Health Benefits
- Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, it supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
- Contains digestive enzymes, including papain, which can help with digestion and reduce bloating.
Culinary Uses
- Commonly used in salads, smoothies, and desserts, offering a sweet flavor and vibrant color.
- In some cultures, unripe papaya is used in savory dishes and salads, providing a crunchy texture.
Cultural Significance
- In various South and Central American cultures, papaya is considered a staple food and is used in traditional healing.
- Hawaiian folklore presents papaya as a sacred plant, symbolizing peace and prosperity.
Agriculture
- Papayas thrive in tropical climates, and their trees can grow to about 10 to 20 feet tall.
- They are usually harvested when they start to turn yellow, and a tree can produce fruit within a year of planting.
Origin of 'papaya'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Spanish 'papaya', which itself comes from the TaÃno word for the fruit.
- In 16th century, European explorers discovered papayas in the Americas, leading to its spread across the globe.
The word 'papaya' comes from the Spanish word 'papaya', which has its origins in the Arawakan language of the Caribbean. The term likely referred to the fruit's local name among indigenous peoples. Papaya trees are native to southern Mexico and Central America, but the fruit is now widely cultivated in tropical regions around the world. The plant has been a staple in many cultures for its nutritional benefits and culinary versatility. In the history of exploration and trade, the papaya gained popularity with European colonists, who were fascinated by its unique taste and beneficial properties. By the 19th century, papayas were being grown in various regions, such as the Philippines, India, and Hawaii, where it has become a significant part of the local diet.
Word Frequency Rank
At rank #25,261, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.
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- 25258 insincerity
- 25259 incantation
- 25260 recalculated
- 25261 papaya
- 25262 cecum
- 25263 outfitted
- 25264 flecked
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