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

Its clawfoot soaker tub is a highlight, and, yes, grapefruit bergamot bubble bath soap from Deep Steep is included. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 13 Nov. 2026

Usually about the size of a large grapefruit, sweet pie pumpkins have thick walls. — Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 12 Nov. 2026

The shop also carries beer, seasonal wines and adult-only slushies with a rotating flavor each week like Rosemary’s Baby, a mix of grapefruit vodka, maple syrup infused with rosemary and a little bit of lemon for balance. — Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 11 Nov. 2026

Notes like grapefruit add a sparkling freshness that can brighten a floral composition or provide an intriguing contrast to warmer ingredients. — Camila Quimper, Footwear News, 10 Nov. 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