guava

noun

gua·​va ˈgwä-və 

1

: any of several tropical American shrubs or small trees (genus Psidium) of the myrtle family

especially : a shrubby tree (P. guajava) widely cultivated for its yellow-skinned fruit with sweet acid yellow or pink flesh

2

: the roundish to pear-shaped fruit of a guava

Did you know?

This is any of many trees and shrubs of a genus that is native to the New World tropics. The two important species are common guava and cattley, or strawberry, guava. The sweet pulp of the common guava fruit has a musky, sometimes pungent odor. The pulp of the strawberry guava fruit has a strawberry-like flavor. Guavas are processed into jams, jellies, and preserves. Fresh guavas are rich in vitamins A, B, and C. They are eaten raw, sliced, and are often served in desserts.

Examples of guava in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This means that August is appropriate for planting citrus, avocado, and guava. —Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 22 Aug. 2025

Take your time perusing the pastry case, where Velasquez shows off a remarkable spread of pan dulce that includes flaky guava queso empanadas and crumbly pecan besitos. —Bon Appétit Staff & Contributors, Bon Appetit Magazine, 20 Aug. 2025

By far, my favorite was the guava fruit freeze served in a cup. —Sacbee.com, 16 Aug. 2025

In the afternoon, shop for fresh produce like cherry peppers, mango, and guava at the lively Public Market in the capital Basseterre, before spending the evening at the Strip, a collection of oceanfront bars and restaurants always filled with crowds and good energy. —Kristin Braswell, AFAR Media, 14 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Spanish guaba, guayaba, perhaps from Taino

First Known Use

1604, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing guava

• pineapple guava

Rhymes for guava

• cava
• fava
• jahveh
• lava
• balaclava
• cassava

Kids Definition

guava

noun

gua·​va ˈgwäv-ə 

: the sweet acid yellow-skinned fruit of a shrubby tropical American tree of the myrtle family

also : a tree that produces guavas and is widely grown in cultivation