Sycomore
/ˈsɪkəˌmɔːr/noun
A type of fig tree, especially the sycamore fig, or a related tree with broad leaves.
Did you know?The word ultimately comes from Greek *sykomoros*, a compound that literally meant “fig-mulberry,” showing how ancient people named trees by comparing their fruit to other familiar plants.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
sykomoros
“fig-mulberry; the sycamore fig tree”
Late Latin
Latin
sycomorus
“the sycamore fig tree”
Old French
OF
sycomore
“sycamore fig; later a related tree name”
Middle English
English
sycomore
“a sycamore tree, especially the fig-bearing kind”
Modern English
English
sycomore
“an alternative spelling of sycamore, or a related tree name”