Definition

Noun 1. A tropical tree species: A large, evergreen tree native to tropical regions of the Americas, scientifically known as Manilkara zapota. It is cultivated for the chicle gum obtained from its latex and for its sweet, edible fruit. It was formerly classified in the genus Achras.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The achras zapota is an important source of chicle, which was historically used in chewing gum.
  • We planted an achras zapota in the botanical garden for its fruit and shade.

Advanced Usage

• In botanical and agricultural contexts: The term is used in scientific, horticultural, and economic discussions regarding tropical forestry, gum production, and fruit cultivation.
  • The plantation focuses on cultivating achras zapota for both the fruit market and the niche chicle industry.

Variants and Related Words

• Sapodilla (n): The common name for both the tree and its fruit.
  • The sapodilla fruit from the achras zapota tree is very sweet.
• Manilkara zapota (n): The current, accepted scientific name for this species.
• Chicle tree (n): Another common name referring to its use as a source of chicle gum.

Synonyms

• Sapodilla tree: The most frequent common name.
• Naseberry: A regional name used in some areas for the tree or its fruit.

Notes on Meaning

This term specifically refers to the botanical species. While "sapodilla" is the prevalent common name in general use, "achras zapota" is the formal, historical scientific name still recognized in many contexts.

Noun

1. large tropical American evergreen yielding chicle gum and edible fruit; sometimes placed in genus Achras