citrus

noun

cit·​rus ˈsi-trəs 

plural citrus or citruses

often attributive

: any of a group of often thorny trees and shrubs (Citrus and related genera) of the rue family grown in warm regions for their edible fruit (such as the orange or lemon) with firm usually thick rind and pulpy flesh

also : the fruit

citrusy

ˈsi-trə-sē 

adjective

Examples of citrus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The blend starts with Banks 5 Rum, and combines it with a native citrus called calamansi, ube and coconut milk to create a layered joyful drink. —Jeanne O'Brien Coffey, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025

All around town there are lovely and fragrant citrus trees. —Sarah Z. Sleeper, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 June 2025

Etro Vibrant and juicy, this zesty orange stands apart from this season’s pastels, transforming farmers market citrus and tropical island florals into wearable pieces. —Victoria Montalti, Refinery29, 25 June 2025

The result is a piney gin with notes of spice and citrus that is great for using in any cocktail. —Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 24 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, genus name, from Latin

First Known Use

1781, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing citrus

• Asian citrus psyllid
• citrus canker
• citrus greening
• citrus greening disease
• citrus red mite

Rhymes for citrus

• nitrous

Kids Definition

citrus

noun

cit·​rus ˈsi-trəs 

plural citrus or citruses

: any of a genus of often thorny trees and shrubs (as the orange, grapefruit, or lemon) grown in warm regions for their fruits

also : the fruit of a citrus

citrus adjective

Medical Definition

citrus

noun

cit·​rus ˈsi-trəs 

often attributive

1

capitalized : a genus of often thorny trees and shrubs of the rue family (Rutaceae) grown in warm regions for their edible fruit (as the orange, lemon, lime, or mandarin) with firm usually thick rind and pulpy flesh

2

plural citruses or citrus : any plant or fruit of the genus Citrus or a related genus