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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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

Time Traveler
The first known use of bitter almond was in 1577

Dictionary Entries Near bitter almond

Cite this Entry

“Bitter almond.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bitter%20almond. Accessed 16 Dec. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on bitter almond

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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