bitter rot

noun

1
: a very destructive disease of apples, grapes, and other fruit caused by a fungus (Glomerella cingulata) and producing cankers on the twigs, limbs, and fruit spurs and a spotting or blistering and decay of the fruit characterized by bitterness of the pulp

called also anthracnose, ripe rot

2
: a rot of ripening grapes caused by an imperfect fungus (Melanconium fuligineum)

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near bitter rot

Cite this Entry

“Bitter rot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bitter%20rot. Accessed 18 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!