Definition

Noun: 1. A small deciduous tree (Diospyros kaki) native to Asia: This refers to the tree species that produces the fruit commonly known as the persimmon, specifically the cultivated varieties originating in East Asia. 2. The large, red or orange, edible fruit of this tree: This is the primary meaning, referring to the sweet, sometimes astringent fruit, which is a berry with a smooth, thin skin.

Usage Examples

• Noun (referring to the fruit):
  • The Japanese persimmon was perfectly ripe and tasted like honey.
  • She bought a basket of Japanese persimmons at the farmers' market.
• Noun (referring to the tree):
  • They planted a Japanese persimmon in their backyard last spring.
  • The leaves of the Japanese persimmon turn a brilliant red in the autumn.

Advanced Usage

• The term Japanese persimmon is often used to distinguish the cultivated, typically larger and sweeter varieties (Diospyros kaki) from other persimmon species, such as the native American persimmon (Diospyros virginiana).
• In botanical and horticultural contexts, Japanese persimmon is the common name for the species .

Variants and Related Words

• Persimmon (n): The more general term for the fruit or tree. "Japanese persimmon" is a specific type of persimmon.
• Kaki (n): Another name for the Japanese persimmon, derived from its Japanese name and its botanical species name, .
• Fuyu (n): A popular non-astringent cultivar of Japanese persimmon, shaped like a tomato and edible while still firm.
• Hachiya (n): A popular astringent cultivar of Japanese persimmon, acorn-shaped, which must become very soft and ripe before eating.

Synonyms

• Kaki
• Asian persimmon
• Oriental persimmon

Related Phrases

• To ripen a persimmon: Refers to the process of allowing the fruit, especially astringent varieties, to become soft and sweet.
  • You must let the Hachiya ripen completely until it is very soft.
• Astringent persimmon: Describes varieties high in tannins that are unpalatably bitter when firm and must be fully ripened.
• Non-astringent persimmon: Describes varieties that can be eaten crisp and firm, like an apple.

Noun

1. small deciduous Asiatic tree bearing large red or orange edible astringent fruit