Star apple is a tropical fruit with a unique taste and a distinctive name. The correct spelling of this fruit's name is /stɑr æpl/, with the initial "s" pronounced as a "z" sound. The "a" in "star" is pronounced as the "aa" sound, and the "e" in "apple" is pronounced as the "eh" sound. The fruit got its name from its star-shaped core and apple-like texture. Star apples are commonly found in Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, and South America and are often consumed as a dessert or snack.
Star Apple, also known as Caimito, is a tropical fruit tree native to the Caribbean Islands and Central America. Scientifically known as Chrysophyllum cainito, it belongs to the Sapotaceae family. The tree can reach a height of around 20 meters, has a dense foliage, and produces a fruit that is highly regarded for its sweet and mildly aromatic flavor.
The star apple fruit is typically round, similar to an apple, with a smooth and glossy purple or greenish skin. The fleshy interior is segmented, consisting of translucent white to pale yellow flesh that is sometimes tinged with purple. When the fruit is cut horizontally, it reveals a beautiful star-shaped pattern formed by the seeds, giving it the name "star apple". The flesh has a gelatinous texture and is sweet with a slight tangy undertone, comparable to a blend of mango and lychee.
The star apple tree is commonly found in tropical regions with a humid climate, where it flourishes in rich, well-drained soil. The fruit is popularly eaten raw, either by simply scooping out the flesh with a spoon or by cutting it into slices. It is also used as an ingredient in various desserts, juices, and smoothies. Additionally, the tree has some traditional medicinal uses, with different parts of the plant being employed to treat ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and inflammation.
In summary, star apple refers to both the fruit and the tree that produces it. It is a tropical fruit characterized by its round shape, smooth skin, and translucent flesh that forms a star-like pattern. Known for its sweet and mildly aromatic flavor, star apple is enjoyed fresh and can be used in a variety of culinary applications.
An Amer. fruit, a kind of apple whose seeds, when the fruit is cut across, present a star-like figure.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "star apple" is derived from the combination of two separate words: "star" and "apple".
- "Star" originates from the Old English word "steorra", which meant a celestial body shining in the sky. This term ultimately originated from the Proto-Germanic word "sternǭ", meaning "star".
- "Apple" originates from the Old English word "æppel", which referred to the fruit. The term can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "aplaz" and the Proto-Indo-European word "h₂ébōl".
When "star" and "apple" are combined, they form "star apple", which refers to a fruit commonly known for its star-like pattern when sliced open, as the seeds form a star-shaped arrangement within the fruit.