Pineapple Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
pineapple
[หpaษชnหรฆpษl ]
Definition
fruit description
Pineapple is a tropical fruit with a distinctive cylindrical shape and a spiky, rough exterior. The inner fruit is sweet and juicy, making it a popular ingredient in a variety of dishes and beverages. It is often used in desserts, salads, and as a topping for pizzas. The pineapple plant is native to South America and has become widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Pineapples contain bromelain, an enzyme that can aid digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I added pineapple chunks to my smoothie for sweetness.
- Grilled pineapple is a delicious summer treat.
- Pineapple juice is a key ingredient in many cocktails.
- She made a pineapple upside-down cake for dessert.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, pineapples symbolize hospitality and warmth. This is why they are often used as a decorative element in homes and celebrations.
- Hawaiians have a special connection to the pineapple, as it played a huge role in the state's economy and was once a major export.
- The fruit has been associated with royalty and wealth, often found in grand feasts and royal decorations.
Nutrition
- Pineapples are rich in vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and keeps the skin healthy.
- They contain bromelain, an enzyme that may aid in digestion and reduce swelling.
- Despite being sweet, they are low in calories, making them a great snack choice for a healthy diet.
History
- The first recorded cultivation of pineapples was in South America, specifically in Brazil and Paraguay, around 2000 years ago.
- European explorers brought pineapples to Europe in the 17th century, where they were initially so rare and expensive that they became a symbol of luxury.
- Pineapples became popular in colonial America, where they were grown in greenhouses, leading to a surge in their admiration and use in desserts.
Fun Facts
- The worldโs largest pineapple was grown in 2016 in the Indonesian region of West Sumatra, weighing over 8.5 kg (18.7 lbs).
- In the 1940s, the pineapple was the star in a culinary craze where it was often paired with savory dishes, including pizza.
- Pineapples do not continue to ripen once picked, so selecting a ripe one at the store is crucial for flavor.
Origin of 'pineapple'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'pineapple' comes from 'pine cone' because early European explorers thought its shape resembled that of a pine cone.
- In Spanish, 'piรฑa' means both 'pineapple' and 'pine cone', highlighting the fruit's unique appearance.
- The fruit was named in the 17th century; prior to that, it was referred to as 'ananas' from the Tupi-Guarani language.
The word pineapple comes from the Spanish word 'piรฑa,' which means 'pine cone.' This term was first used in the 16th century to describe the fruit due to its resemblance to a pine cone. The plant itself, Ananas comosus, is native to South America and was cultivated by indigenous peoples long before the arrival of Europeans. The fruit was named by early European explorers who found it in the regions of the tropics. Over time, the fruit became widely propagated in tropical regions around the world, especially in Hawaii, which became known for mass production. Today, it is a significant crop in many countries, both for domestic consumption and export.