Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/keɪp ˈɡuːzˌbɛri/

Definitions

• A small, round fruit with a bright orange or yellow skin, encased in a papery husk, native to South America but now grown in many parts of the world.
• A plant, also known as Physalis peruviana, which produces the Cape gooseberry fruit. It is part of the Solanaceae family, related to tomatoes and eggplant.
• A popular fruit in jams, sauces, and desserts due to its tangy flavor and vibrant color.

Usage Examples

• "The Cape gooseberry adds a tangy burst of flavor to the fruit salad."
• "We made a delicious jam from Cape gooseberries harvested from the garden."
• "The bright orange Cape gooseberries were the highlight of the dessert table."

Etymology

The term "Cape gooseberry" originates from the fruit's association with the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, where it was cultivated and popularized in Europe. The word "gooseberry" is used for various small, sour berries, but this fruit's papery husk and distinct flavor led to its unique name.

Synonyms

• Physalis
• Goldenberry
• Inca berry
• Husk tomato

Antonyms

• Sweetberry
• Blueberry
• Raspberry

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In South Africa, the pronunciation is closer to /keɪp ˈɡuːzˌbɛri/ due to the Cape of Good Hope association.
• In the UK and some parts of the US, it might be pronounced as /kæp ˈɡuːzˌbɛri/ with slight differences in the vowel sounds.

Historical Usage

The Cape gooseberry has been cultivated in South Africa since the early colonial days. Initially discovered in South America, it was brought to the Cape of Good Hope by early traders and settlers. It quickly became a popular fruit in Europe and other parts of the world, prized for its unique flavor and versatility in cooking and preserving.

Cultural Nuances

In South African culture, the Cape gooseberry is often enjoyed fresh, in desserts, or made into jams and chutneys. It is seen as a delicacy in rural areas, while in urban settings it is often used in international cuisine. In Latin American cultures, where it originates, the fruit is used in a variety of traditional dishes, including desserts and beverages.

More Information

The Cape gooseberry, also known as the goldenberry or Inca berry, is an important part of many cultures worldwide. Native to the Andes, it has spread across the globe due to its adaptability and nutritional value. The fruit is known for its high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties, which have made it a popular ingredient in health foods and supplements. It thrives in temperate regions and is typically grown in areas with moderate climates. The fruit is harvested when the papery husk turns brown, indicating ripeness, and it is prized for its sweet-tart flavor, which makes it an ideal candidate for both savory and sweet dishes.