bitter almond

noun

: an almond with a bitter taste that contains amygdalin

also : a tree (Prunus dulcis var. amara) producing bitter almonds

Examples of bitter almond in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

With its inky hue, Dolcetto dances across the palate with flavors of blackberries, violets, and a hint of bitter almond. —Johnny Noakes, Hartford Courant, 15 July 2024

This red jar candle exudes an intoxicating blend of bitter almond, saffron, white floral jasmine, and ambered cedarwood. —Christianna Silva, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Jan. 2024

Medieval Arabic texts indicate that bitter almond was sometimes used to fade freckles and other discolorations, Stewart points out. —Ashley Fetters Maloy, Washington Post, 29 July 2023

Whole bitter almonds are not used for snacking or baking like sweet almonds are. —USA TODAY, 4 July 2023

Queen Charlotte had an entire room at Windsor Castle dedicated to her snuff collection, her favorite of which was named Violet Strasbourg, a blend mixed with bitter almonds, ambergris, and attar. —Lauren Puckett-Pope, Harper's BAZAAR, 5 May 2023

Cherry Eau De Parfum is a bolder, sexier take on cherries, thanks to a blend of bitter almond and sweet cherry liqueur. —Angela Trakoshis, Allure, 26 Sep. 2022

Le Castella is a coastal town on the Ionian sea, a prime location that allows for the local olive trees to produce optimal flavor profiles that are fruity, herbaceous with notes of bitter almond. —Valentina Di Donato, Forbes, 11 Mar. 2021

In many detective novels, the ominous aroma of bitter almonds foreshadows a swift demise. —Jennifer Leman, Scientific American, 13 June 2019

Word History

First Known Use

1577, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

bitter almond

noun

: an almond with a bitter taste that contains amygdalin

also : a tree (Prunus dulcis amara) of the rose family (Rosaceae) producing bitter almonds