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Quince Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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quince

[kwɪns ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

fruit

A quince is a hard, yellow fruit that is similar to a pear. It has a strong fragrance and a tart taste. Quinces are often used in cooking and baking, especially in jams, jellies, and desserts.

Synonyms

golden apple.

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Word Description / Examples
quince

Used when referring to the specific fruit, primarily in cooking or gardening contexts. Quince is known for its hard, yellowish flesh and strong aroma. It is often used in jellies, jams, and baking.

  • I made a delicious quince jelly for breakfast
  • The quince trees in our garden are blooming beautifully this season
golden apple

Used in literary or poetic contexts to describe a quince or sometimes a golden-colored apple. It may also appear in myths or stories where it symbolizes something precious or valuable.

  • In the old folklore, the hero was rewarded with a golden apple for his bravery
  • A golden apple lay glistening under the tree, catching the sunlight

Examples of usage

  • She made a delicious quince jam.
  • The quince tree was full of ripe fruit.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • In many cultures, quince is transformed into jams, jellies, and preserves due to its high pectin content, making it perfect for spreads.
  • Quince can be made into 'membrillo,' a sweet paste that pairs wonderfully with cheese and is popular in Spain.

Cultural Significance

  • In ancient Greece, the quince was often associated with romance and fertility, symbolizing love and beauty.
  • The fruit appears in literature, such as in Shakespeare's plays, often symbolizing desire and longing.

Botanical Facts

  • Quince is part of the Rosaceae family, which also includes apples, pears, and roses, showcasing the diverse nature of this family.
  • Unlike many fruits, quinces are typically not eaten raw; they need to be cooked to enhance their flavor and sweetness.

Health Benefits

  • Quinces are rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to various diets.
  • They have been traditionally used in folk medicine for their potential anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

Origin of 'quince'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'quince' comes from the Latin 'cydonia,' named after the Cydonia region in Crete, where it was first cultivated.
  • The Old French term 'quinse' describes the fruit, which evolved into the modern English term we use today.

The word 'quince' originates from the Latin word 'cydonia', which refers to the ancient city of Cydonia in Crete, known for its quince trees. Quinces have been cultivated for thousands of years and have a rich history in various cultures, symbolizing love, fertility, and happiness.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,565, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.