Definition

Noun: 1. A small, edible, cherry-like fruit from a tropical American shrub (Eugenia uniflora). The fruit is typically ribbed, can be red or yellow, and has a tart, acidic flavor. It is noted for being very rich in vitamin C. 2. The tropical American shrub or small tree (Eugenia uniflora) that bears this fruit. It is also known as the Brazilian cherry and is cultivated in warm regions like Florida and California.

Usage Examples

• As a fruit:
  • The Surinam cherry has a unique, tangy flavor that is perfect for making jams.
  • She picked a handful of ripe red Surinam cherries from the bush.
• As a plant:
  • We planted a Surinam cherry in our backyard for its ornamental leaves and fruit.
  • The Surinam cherry hedge provides both privacy and a seasonal harvest.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in botanical and horticultural contexts to distinguish from common cherries ( species).
• In culinary descriptions, it is specified to indicate the fruit's distinct tartness and high vitamin C content compared to sweet cherries.

Variants and Related Words

• Brazilian cherry: A common alternative name for both the fruit and the tree.
• Pitanga: The common name for the fruit in Portuguese and Spanish.
• Eugenia uniflora: The scientific (Latin) name for the plant species.

Synonyms

• Brazilian cherry (noun)
• Pitanga (noun)

Notes on Different Meanings

• The primary meaning refers to the fruit itself, which is consumed.
• The secondary meaning refers to the plant species that produces the fruit. The context usually makes it clear which is intended (e.g., "eating a Surinam cherry" vs. "pruning the Surinam cherry").

Noun

1. acid red or yellow cherry-like fruit of a tropical American shrub very rich in vitamin C
2. Brazilian tree with spicy red fruit; often cultivated in California and Florida
3. tropical American shrub bearing edible acid red fruit resembling cherries