grapefruit

noun

grape·​fruit ˈgrāp-ˌfrüt How to pronounce grapefruit (audio)
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
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This set of six includes scents like lavender, menthol and eucalyptus, vanilla and orange, grapefruit, watermelon, and peppermint, each made with natural essential oils. L. Daniela Alvarez, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Sep. 2025 Garnish with a grapefruit peel. Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 27 Sep. 2025 Today, seltzer water is sold almost everywhere, with brands offering plain and flavored varieties ranging from lime and black cherry to grapefruit and seasonal blends. Daryl Austin, USA Today, 26 Sep. 2025 What about plain-Jane organic sheep who’ve been hijacked by a grapefruit-size eyeball with tentacles? Chris Klimek, Vulture, 26 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for grapefruit

Word History

First Known Use

1814, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of grapefruit was in 1814

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Cite this Entry

“Grapefruit.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/grapefruit. Accessed 7 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

grapefruit

noun
grape·​fruit ˈgrāp-ˌfrüt How to pronounce grapefruit (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on grapefruit

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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