rose apple

noun

1
: any of several tropical plants (genus Syzygium of the family Myrtaceae) or their fruits: such as
a
: a small tropical tree (Syzygium jambos synonym Eugenia jambos) native to southeastern Asia that has long, glossy, evergreen leaves and creamy to greenish white flowers
also : its usually round to oval edible fruit with flesh having a roselike fragrance
b
: malay apple
e
: java plum
2
Australia : burdekin plum

Word History

First Known Use

1790, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rose apple was in 1790

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 rose apple

Cite this Entry

“Rose apple.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rose%20apple. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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