Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈbɛri/

Definitions

• 1. A small, round, and typically edible fruit, often juicy, sweet, or sour, and usually containing seeds.
• 2. The fleshy, seed-containing part of a plant that develops from a single ovary.
• 3. A term used to refer to any of the fruit-bearing plants that produce such small fruits.

Usage Examples

• The forest was filled with wild berries, perfect for picking in late summer.
• She picked fresh strawberries from the berry patch for breakfast.
• The dessert was topped with an assortment of berries, including blueberries and raspberries.

Etymology

From Middle English "berri," from Old English "berie," related to Old Norse "ber," meaning berry or fruit.

Synonyms

• Fruit
• Small fruit
• Berry fruit
• Drupes

Antonyms

• Vegetable
• Root
• Nut

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "berry" may vary depending on regional accents. In American English, it is often pronounced as "ˈbɛri," while in British English, the pronunciation may sound slightly more rounded, "ˈbɛrə." The term "berry" can also take on regional nuances depending on the specific type of berry referenced (e.g., strawberry, blackberry, or blueberry).

Historical Usage

Historically, berries have been a staple food in many cultures, used both for their nutritional value and their medicinal properties. The term "berry" has been used in English since at least the 12th century, and berries were important in various ancient diets due to their high vitamin content and their ability to preserve well in cold storage.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, berries are symbolic of abundance and natural beauty. In the European tradition, berry-picking is often associated with summer rituals and folk festivals. In modern times, berries such as strawberries and blueberries are popular in desserts, jams, and juices. They are also a symbol of health in Western cultures, frequently advertised as superfoods.

More Information

The word "berry" refers to small, round, and often brightly colored fruits that come from a variety of plants. While many berries are edible and prized for their taste, others, such as holly berries, are toxic. The term "berry" in botanical terms refers to a fruit that develops from a single ovary and contains seeds embedded in the flesh, as opposed to other types of fruits like drupes and pomes. Examples of common berries include strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, though there are also many less common varieties that are native to specific regions or climates.