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

Citrus The bright, uplifting aroma of citrus oils like grapefruit, lemon, and sweet orange is ideal for all-purpose sprays and glass cleaners, says Mercurio. —Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Nov. 2025

As a garnish, a grapefruit peel, adding a slightly numbing textured bitterness to the experience, ties the whole thing together. —Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 25 Nov. 2025

Citrus Fruits Citrus fruits, like lemons, oranges, and grapefruits, are common superfoods. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 25 Nov. 2025

Try Field 41, a pale ale named for a parcel of family land, or the Topcutter IPA, a flagship West Coast–style brew bursting with pine, grapefruit, and floral notes from Simcoe, Citra, and Mosaic hops, finishing clean and dry. —Vivian Chung, Travel + Leisure, 23 Nov. 2025

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