Lime
/laɪm/noun
A citrus fruit that is typically green and acidic, used in cooking and beverages.
Did you know?In medieval times, limes were believed to ward off evil spirits, making them a symbol of protection and purification in various cultures.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*leim-
“to stick, adhere, or be moist, relating to the qualities of lime.”
Latin
Latin
limon
“citrus fruit, possibly deriving from a local name for small citrus fruits.”
Old French
Old French
lime
“a type of sour citrus fruit, introduced into the language from Latin.”
Middle English
Middle English
lime
“the same citrus fruit as in Old French, used in cooking and as a drink additive.”
Modern English
English
lime
“the current term for the green citrus fruit, still associated with culinary uses.”