Plum Meaning and Definition
Plum
Pronunciation
/plʌm/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A type of stone fruit that is typically violet, red, or yellow in color, with a juicy pulp and a single seed. It is often eaten fresh, used in baking, or made into jams and preserves.
Examples
- He ate a fresh plum right from the tree.
- The plum pie was a hit at the family gathering.
Synonyms
- Prune
- Greengage
Antonyms
- Apricot
- Peach
Additional Information
The plum is a popular fruit worldwide, known for its sweet and tangy taste. It is also a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Plums are often paired with cheese, nuts, and crackers for a sweet and savory snack. In the United States, plums are often used in baking, while in Europe, they are often made into jam and preserves. There are several varieties of plums, including the Santa Rosa, the Italian Prune, and the Japanese plum.
Plums have been cultivated for thousands of years, with evidence of plum cultivation dating back to ancient China. The plum was introduced to Europe by the Romans and became a popular fruit among the aristocracy. Today, plums are grown in many parts of the world, with the top producers being China, the United States, and Italy.
In addition to being a popular fruit, plums have also been used for their medicinal properties. The bark of the plum tree has been used to treat various ailments, including fever and sore throats. The fruit has also been used to treat digestive issues and skin problems.
Plums are a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of dishes, from desserts to savory meals. They are a great addition to salads, smoothies, and yogurt parfaits. Plums can also be used to make a delicious and healthy sauce to serve with meat or as a dip.
Etymology
The word “plum” comes from the Old English word “plume,” which referred to a type of fruit. The word has its roots in the Latin word “prunum,” which also referred to a type of fruit.
Usage Notes
The word “plum” is often used to refer to the fruit, but it can also be used to refer to a variety of other things, including a color, a type of fabric, and a type of equipment.
When using the word “plum,” it’s often helpful to specify what type of plum you are referring to, such as a Japanese plum or an Italian plum.
Cultural References
The plum has been featured in various forms of literature and art, including the works of William Shakespeare and the paintings of the Dutch masters.
In Japanese culture, the plum blossom is considered a symbol of spring and rebirth.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “The plum is not as sweet as it looks”
- “The plum is worth fighting for”
- “The plum is rotten to the core”
Related Words or Phrases
Sister of the plum is the cherry.
The plum is a type of stone fruit, similar to peaches and nectarines.
Collocations
- plum jam
- plum sauce
- plum cake
Frequency of Use
The word “plum” is a common word in modern language, appearing frequently in cooking, baking, and gardening contexts.
Common Misspellings
- plam
- plume