Lychee Meaning and Definition
Lychee
Pronunciation
/laɪˈtʃiː/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A tropical fruit native to Asia, known for its leathery rind and pulpy interior, often eaten fresh or used in desserts.
Examples
- I love snacking on fresh lychees during the summer.
- The dessert menu featured a lychee sorbet as a unique treat.
Synonyms
- Longan
- Rambutan
Antonyms
- Common fruit
- Berry
Additional Information
Lychees are an excellent source of vitamin C and potassium, making them a nutritious snack option. They are often used in traditional Chinese medicine and are also enjoyed in various cuisines around the world. The fruit’s unique flavor and texture have made it a popular ingredient in desserts, smoothies, and salads.
Lychees are typically harvested between May and October, with June being the peak season. The fruit grows on evergreen trees that can reach up to 40 feet tall, making them a popular ornamental plant in gardens.
Lychee products, such as lychee juice and lychee jam, are also widely available in grocery stores and online.
Etymology
The word ‘Lychee’ comes from the Chinese term “” (lì zhī), which refers to the fruit and its leathery rind.
Usage Notes
In American English, the term ‘Lychee’ is commonly used, while in British English, it is often spelled ‘Litchi’. Both spellings are acceptable.
Cultural References
The Lychee has been mentioned in various literary works, including Arthur Golden’s novel “Memoirs of a Geisha” and Amy Tan’s novel “The Joy Luck Club”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“As sweet as a lychee” is a common idiomatic expression in some Asian cultures, used to describe something that is delightful or pleasant.
Related Words or Phrases
- Fruit
- Tropical fruit
- Exotic fruit
Collocations
- Lychee fruit
- Lychee juice
- Lychee jam
Frequency of Use
The word ‘Lychee’ is not as commonly used as other fruits, but it is still widely recognized and appreciated in many cultures.
Common Misspellings
- Lichee
- Litchi
- Lici