papaya

noun

pa·​pa·​ya pə-ˈpī-ə 

: a tropical American tree (Carica papaya of the family Caricaceae, the papaya family) having an oblong to globose yellow edible fruit with numerous black seeds in a central cavity

also : its fruit

Examples of papaya in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The formula combines papaya enzymes and pink salt to exfoliate gently while balancing your scalp's natural oils. —Erin Parker, Allure, 22 Jan. 2025

The spa also offers several body scrubs and wraps using local ingredients like papaya, banana, herbs, and two facials. —Devorah Lev-Tov, Travel + Leisure, 26 Dec. 2024

Enzymes: Natural enzymes from fruits like papaya or pineapple are gentle and effective for removing dead skin cells. —Shani Hillian, Essence, 20 Dec. 2024

Its rich, fearlessly salty presence adds pop to dishes like pad thai, lime chili shrimp and papaya salad. —Rai Mincey, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, of American Indian origin; akin to Arawak papáia papaya

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

papaya

noun

pa·​pa·​ya pə-ˈpī-ə 

: an oblong edible yellow fruit with many black seeds that grows on a tropical American tree with large leaves

also : the tree

Medical Definition

papaya

noun

pa·​pa·​ya pə-ˈpī-ə 

: a tropical American tree of the genus Carica (C. papaya) with large oblong yellow edible fruit

also : its fruit which is the source of papain