bitter rot

noun

, Plant Pathology.

1. a disease of apples, grapes, and other fruit, characterized by cankers on the branches or twigs and bitter, rotted fruit, caused by any of several fungi.

Word History and Origins

Origin of bitter rot¹

An Americanism dating back to 1860–65

Example Sentences

In Illinois, to illustrate, we have what is called the bitter rot fungus in the southern part of the state.

From Project Gutenberg

If any one has the bitter rot they are scared to death, they think they are suffering untold misfortune.

From Project Gutenberg

To these should be added in the South and middle latitudes, sooty blotch and bitter rot.

From Project Gutenberg

The pecan has a fungus attacking it that is very similar to the bitter rot of the apple.

From Project Gutenberg

The pecan anthracnose looks like the bitter rot, has the same pink spore masses and you will be able to recognize it.

From Project Gutenberg