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

Additionally, citrus peels are rich in vitamin C and various bioflavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. —Nick Blackmer, Verywell Health, 19 Apr. 2024

Texas is the third-largest citrus state behind California and Florida. —Leah Douglas, The Christian Science Monitor, 18 Apr. 2024

South Africa has taken a preliminary step toward filing a complaint with the World Trade Organization against the European Union over its treatment of citrus purchases from the country. —Antony Sguazzin, Fortune Europe, 16 Apr. 2024

Via Citrus Meyer Lemon Tree Buy on Amazon Buy on Etsy Buy on Uncommon Goods A tabletop citrus tree that can live indoors or outside in most Southern climates is an original gift for any dad who has a green thumb or enjoys fresh citrus. —Lauren Finney Harden, Southern Living, 15 Apr. 2024

Drop some citrus slices or berries for light flavoring if plain water doesn't inspire you. —Hilary Tetenbaum, Detroit Free Press, 8 Apr. 2024

This comes in soft gel form, with citrus essence for a pleasant flavor. —Erika Prouty, Verywell Health, 11 Apr. 2024

Get The Recipe 22 of 50 Key Lime Daiquiris Daiquiri lovers will adore this tropical twist of rum, citrus juice, and sweetener. —Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 11 Apr. 2024

Complete with a strainer lid, jigger cap, citrus reamer, and shatterproof steel rocks, this nestable set can be stacked into the shaker for easy transportation — whether that’s to the next campsite or the next party. —Alyssa Brascia, Peoplemag, 11 Apr. 2024

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

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