balsam apple

noun

1
: either of two herbaceous vines of the genus Momordica:
a
: bitter melon
b
: a similar vine (Momordica balsamina) bearing red or orange, oblong, warty fruits
2
: the fruit of the balsam apple plant

Word History

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of balsam apple was in 1578

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Dictionary Entries Near balsam apple

balsam

balsam apple

balsam bog

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Balsam apple.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/balsam%20apple. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

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