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

There’s also a fresh opportunity to explore new libations, cocktails that feature summer ingredients such as pineapple, peach, and grapefruit, along with a hint of fall from cranberry and maraschino cherry. — John Kell, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026

By area, the largest crops are sweet oranges, sugarcane, peanuts, cotton, corn, grapefruit, potatoes, tomatoes, beans, cucumbers, watermelons, rice, soy, and peppers. — Candace Barone, Florida Times-Union, 15 Aug. 2026

Excellent, balanced acidity supports flavors of savory herbs, grapefruit pith, and tropical fruits. — Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 14 Aug. 2026

Citrus scents include ingredients like bergamot, lemon, orange, or grapefruit; fruity fragrances would include ingredients like berries, peach, or pear. — Kara Nesvig, Allure, 12 Aug. 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