eggplant
UK: ˈɛɡplɑːnt | US: ˈɛɡplænt
n. a plant (Solanum melongena) cultivated for its edible, typically purple-skinned fruit
n. the large, fleshy fruit of this plant, used as a vegetable
The term "eggplant" originated in 18th-century English, describing varieties of the plant that bore small, white, egg-shaped fruits (unlike the modern purple types). The name highlights a visual analogy rather than a direct linguistic root. Over time, it became standardized for all cultivars, even as the fruit's appearance diversified.
She grilled slices of eggplant with olive oil and herbs.
The farmer grows tomatoes and eggplants in his greenhouse.
Eggplant parmesan is a popular Italian dish.
The recipe calls for one large eggplant, diced.
In some countries, eggplant is called "aubergine."