Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ɡreɪp/

Definitions

• Noun: A small, typically round or oval fruit produced by the grapevine, often eaten raw or used to make wine, juice, or raisins.
• Noun: A cluster of grapes that grow together on a vine or plant.

Usage Examples

• She enjoyed a handful of sweet grapes after lunch.
• The vineyard produced grapes used to make premium wines.

Etymology

The word "grape" comes from the Old French "grape," meaning a bunch of grapes or a cluster, which in turn comes from the Latin word "grappus" or "grapa," meaning a bunch of grapes or a cluster of fruit. The term has been used in English since the 14th century.

Synonyms

• Berry
• Vine fruit
• Cluster fruit

Antonyms

• Non-fruit
• Vegetable

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In the United States, the word "grape" is typically pronounced with a long "a" sound, while in the UK, it may sound slightly shorter.
• In some Indian regions, the word "grape" is pronounced more closely to "angoor" due to regional phonetic influences.

Historical Usage

Grapes have been cultivated for over 6,000 years, with their origins in the Middle East and Asia Minor. They were first domesticated by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, and have since spread globally. Grapes have been valued not only as a food source but also for their role in the production of wine, which has a long history across multiple cultures.

Cultural Nuances

Grapes hold significant cultural importance in many societies. They are often used in religious ceremonies, particularly in Christianity, where wine is considered a symbol of the blood of Christ. In some cultures, grapes are associated with good fortune and fertility, and are commonly given as gifts during celebrations.

More Information

Grapes are a highly versatile fruit used in a variety of ways, including fresh consumption, juice production, and in the making of wine, raisins, and other dried fruits. The fruit comes in various colors, including green, red, purple, and black. Different varieties of grapes are used to produce different types of wine, with white grapes typically being used for white wine and red grapes for red wine. Grapes are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a popular addition to a healthy diet.