watermelon

[waw-ter-mel-uhn, wot-er-]

noun

1. the large, roundish or elongated fruit of a trailing vine, Citrullus lanata, of the gourd family, having a hard, green rind and a sweet, juicy, usually pink or red pulp.

2. the vine itself.

watermelon

/ ˈwɔːtəˌmɛlən /

noun

1. an African melon, Citrullus vulgaris, widely cultivated for its large edible fruit

2. the fruit of this plant, which has a hard green rind and sweet watery reddish flesh

Word History and Origins

Origin of watermelon¹

First recorded in 1605–15; water + melon

Example Sentences

“I’ll be there this time,” said Logan, who was eating healthy watermelons before the game but wearing his usual short pants during the game on a night to remember.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

I’m a sucker for watermelon lemonade, which they do not offer, but I wasn’t deterred.

Read more on Salon

The watermelon has become a symbol for solidarity with Palestinians due to its colours, which are similar to those of the Palestinian flag – red, green, black and white.

Read more on BBC

Pictures of the event posted online showed the participants carrying umbrellas painted to look like watermelons, a symbol associated with the Palestinian cause.

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But the star of the show is watermelon.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• cantaloupe 
• gourd 
• papaya