strawberry
UK: /ˈstrɔːbəri/ | US: /ˈstrɔːberi/
n. a sweet, soft red fruit with tiny seeds on its surface, often eaten fresh or used in desserts
n. the low-growing plant that produces this fruit, belonging to the genus Fragaria
strawberry = straw<dry plant stalks> + berry<small fruit>
- straw (from Old English strēaw, meaning "dry plant stalks"): Likely refers to the straw-like runners of the plant or the practice of mulching with straw.
- berry (from Old English berie, meaning "small fruit"): A generic term for small, pulpy fruits.
Etymology Origin:
The word "strawberry" dates back to Old English (strēawberige), but its exact logic remains debated. One theory suggests it refers to the plant's runners resembling straw strands, while another links it to the historical practice of growing strawberries on straw beds to protect the fruit. Unlike modern hybrids, wild strawberries were smaller and grew close to the ground, possibly reinforcing the "straw" association.
She picked fresh strawberries from the garden for the pie.
Strawberry jam is a popular topping for toast.
The strawberry plant spreads quickly through its runners.
He ordered a strawberry milkshake at the café.
Wild strawberries are smaller but more flavorful than cultivated varieties.