Meaning & Definition of word "Lime"
to
Lime
/laɪm/
noun:
- 1. A yellowish-green citrus fruit that is typically round and contains acidic juice.
- Example: I squeezed a lime into my drink to add some flavor.
- 2. The tree that produces limes, belonging to the genus Citrus.
- Example: The lime tree in the garden is full of ripe fruit.
- 3. A form of calcium oxide or hydroxide used in various industrial processes.
- Example: The construction workers used lime to stabilize the soil.
verb:
- 1. To treat or mix with lime, typically in agriculture or to modify soil pH levels.
- Example: They decided to lime the fields to improve crop yield.
Etymology
Middle English 'lyme', from Old French 'lime' or from Latin 'limonem' (lemon).
Common Phrases and Expressions
lime juice:
Liquid obtained from squeezing limes, often used in cocktails.
limey:
Slang term for a British person, originally referring to sailors who consumed lime to prevent scurvy.
squeeze lime:
To extract juice from a lime, typically used in cooking or drinks.
Related Words
citron:
A large, yellow citrus fruit used in flavoring and perfumes.
lemon:
A yellow citrus fruit, similar to lime but larger and sweeter.
Slang Meanings of lime
Meaning: To be in a bad situation or to fail.
Example Sentence: He was totally limed when he forgot his lines during the play.
Meaning: To drink excessively.
Example Sentence: They were liming at the bar all night.