grapefruit

noun

grape·​fruit ˈgrāp-ˌfrüt 

1

plural grapefruit or grapefruits : a large round citrus fruit with a bitter yellow rind and a juicy somewhat tart pale yellow, pink, or reddish pulp

2

: a small citrus tree (Citrus paradisi) that produces grapefruit

Examples of grapefruit in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Rookie, for example, combines mezcal with amaro, grapefruit and Thai chili–a little sweet, a little sour, and beautifully balanced to complement all the food on the menu. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 June 2026

In 2018, the same doctor determined the fibroid had grown to the size of a grapefruit. —Christie Thompson, NPR, 17 June 2026

The takeaway for shoppers is to look for top notes built around tangerine, sweet orange, grapefruit or bergamot when the goal is energy. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Charlotte Observer, 17 June 2026

Crisp and refreshing, the drink’s grapefruit bitterness was softened by carbonation, giving Mexico’s national cocktail a lively upgrade. —Sari Kamin, Bon Appetit Magazine, 17 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1814, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for grapefruit

• absolute
• arrowroot
• attribute
• bitterroot
• constitute
• convolute
• destitute
• disrepute
• dissolute
• execute
• institute
• involute

Kids Definition

grapefruit

noun

grape·​fruit ˈgrāp-ˌfrüt 

1

plural grapefruit or grapefruits : a large citrus fruit with a bitter yellow rind and a highly flavored somewhat acid juicy pulp

2

: a tree that bears grapefruit