Grapefruits

/ˈɡreɪpˌfruts/ noun

Definition

The plural of grapefruit, large citrus fruits with yellow or pink flesh that taste tart and slightly bitter, named for their grape-like clusters on trees.

Etymology

From 'grape' plus 'fruit,' named in the 18th century by Caribbean growers who noticed the fruits grew in clusters like grapes; the fruit itself is a relatively recent hybrid.

Kelly Says

Grapefruits aren't actually related to grapes—the name comes purely from how they hang in clusters on trees, which is a great example of how fruit names can be totally based on appearance rather than botanical relationships.

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