Cranberry

/ˈkrænˌbɛr.i/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The plant that produces cranberries, which is native to North America.

The cranberry bogs in Massachusetts are famous for their fall harvest.

A flavored drink or juice made from cranberries.

She ordered a cranberry juice to go with her breakfast.

A type of small, round, red berry that grows on a low evergreen shrub, known for its tart flavor and commonly used in food and beverages.

I made a delicious cranberry sauce to accompany the turkey at Thanksgiving.

Etymology

The term 'cranberry' comes from the Old English 'cran' (for crane, the bird) and 'berry'. The name is believed to have been inspired by the flower's resemblance to the head of a crane.

Common Phrases and Expressions

cranberry juice

A beverage made from crushed cranberries.

cranberry sauce

A sauce made from cranberries, typically served with turkey during Thanksgiving.

cranberry bog

A wetland area where cranberries are cultivated.

Related Words

blueberry

A sweet, blue fruit similar to the cranberry.

raspberry

A small, red or black fruit known for its tart flavor.

strawberry

A sweet, red fruit with seeds on the outside.

Slang Meanings

Cranberry as a euphemism for the color or flavor.

Can you grab me that cranberry-colored shirt?

Referring to something tart or sour.

That comment was a real cranberry!