citrus

American  

[si-truhs] / ˈsɪ trəs /

noun

plural

citruses

1. any small tree or spiny shrub of the genus Citrus, of the rue family, including the lemon, lime, orange, tangerine, grapefruit, citron, kumquat, and shaddock, widely cultivated for fruit or grown as an ornamental.

2. the tart-to-sweet, pulpy fruit of any of these trees or shrubs, having a characteristically smooth, shiny, stippled skin.

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adjective

1. Also citrous of or relating to such trees or shrubs, or their fruit.

citrus British  

/ ˈsɪtrəs /

noun

1. any tree or shrub of the tropical and subtropical rutaceous genus Citrus, which includes the orange, lemon, lime, grapefruit, citron, and calamondin

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adjective

1. of, relating to, or belonging to the genus Citrus or to the fruits of plants of this genus

citrus Scientific  

/ sĭt′rəs /

1. Any of various evergreen trees or shrubs bearing fruit with juicy flesh and a thick rind. Citrus trees are native to southern and southeast Asia but are grown in warm climates around the world. Many species have spines. The orange, lemon, lime, and grapefruit are citrus trees.

2. The usually edible fruit of one of these trees or shrubs.

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Etymology

Origin of citrus

1815–25; < New Latin, Latin: citron tree

Example Sentences

Cardamom carries a subtle floral note and a quiet citrus edge that sharpens the cinnamon without competing with it.

From Salon

He smells good, like a mix of sandalwood, sage, and citrus rolled into one.

From Literature

I go there, especially during this time of year, and get bags of citrus.

From Los Angeles Times

The lemon-lime soda giant on Tuesday was named the official soft drink of the league, taking over from PepsiCo’s rival citrus brand Starry.

From The Wall Street Journal

The MacBook Neo’s bright “citrus” hue immediately stood out against the brick walls.

From The Wall Street Journal