Genip

/ˈdʒɛnɪp/ noun

Definition

A tropical American tree that produces a small, round fruit used to make jams, jellies, and a dye, also called the marmalade tree.

Etymology

From Taino (Caribbean indigenous language) 'genipa' or similar, reflecting the pre-Columbian use of this plant in the Americas; adopted into English during colonial trade in the Caribbean.

Kelly Says

Genip fruit produces a natural blue-black dye that indigenous peoples used for centuries, and it's still used today to create temporary tattoos and stains—the dye was so valuable that colonial traders fought over genip trees!

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