Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of tree: Any of numerous tropical, usually thorny, evergreen trees belonging to the genus Citrus. These trees have leathery, evergreen leaves and are widely cultivated for their fruit.
   • A type of fruit: Any of the numerous fruits produced by trees of the genus Citrus. These fruits are characterized by a thick, aromatic rind (peel) and a juicy pulp divided into segments. They are grown in warm regions.

Usage

• The word "citrus" can be used as a countable noun to refer to individual fruits or trees (e.g., , ), though it is more commonly used as a non-count noun referring to the category as a whole (e.g., , ). It is also frequently used attributively as an adjective (e.g., , ).

Examples

• Noun (referring to trees):
  • The orchard is filled with various citrus, including oranges, lemons, and limes.
  • Farmers often graft different varieties onto hardy citrus rootstock.
• Noun (referring to fruits):
  • I love adding a slice of citrus to my water.
  • The market sells a wide variety of citruses from around the world.
• Attributive/Adjectival Use:
  • The recipe calls for a hint of citrus zest.
  • Florida is famous for its citrus industry.

Advanced Usage

• "Citrus" as a mass noun: Often used to refer to the general category or the juice/scent/flavor derived from these fruits.
  • The salad dressing needs more citrus.
  • The air was heavy with the scent of citrus.
• In botanical/agricultural contexts: Used to discuss the genus, cultivation, or diseases.
  • The citrus canker is a serious threat to orchards.
  • Hybridization is common within the citrus genus.

Variants and Related Words

• Citrusy (adjective): Having the qualities (flavor, aroma) of citrus fruit.
  • The cocktail had a fresh, citrusy taste.
• Citric (adjective): Pertaining to or derived from citrus fruits, especially relating to citric acid.
  • Lemons have a high citric acid content.

Synonyms

• Citrus fruit: A more specific term for the edible product.
• Rutaceous fruit: A technical term from botany, referring to fruits of the family Rutaceae, which includes citrus.

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Citrus fruit: The edible fruit of a citrus tree.
  • Oranges and grapefruits are common citrus fruits.
• Citrus grove: A plantation of citrus trees.
  • We drove past miles of citrus groves.
• Citrus peel: The outer rind of the fruit, often used for zest.
  • Candied citrus peel is a delicious treat.

Noun

1. any of numerous tropical usually thorny evergreen trees of the genus Citrus having leathery evergreen leaves and widely cultivated for their juicy edible fruits having leathery aromatic rinds
2. any of numerous fruits of the genus Citrus having thick rind and juicy pulp; grown in warm regions