ENGLISH
REFERENCE

abacate

n. countable
C2 Proficiency aba·cate

n. the fruit of the avocado tree, especially when referred to in a Portuguese-speaking context. You might see this word on menus or in markets when traveling in Brazil.

n. the fruit of the Persea americana tree, specifically the Portuguese term for avocado. Often used in English contexts to refer specifically to the larger, smoother-skinned varieties common in South America.


SIMPLE

I bought a large abacate at the market to make a smoothie.

CONTEXTUAL

While many people use avocado for savory toast, in Brazil an abacate is often blended with milk and sugar.

COMPLEX

The vendor explained that the abacate differs from the smaller Hass variety primarily in its lower oil content and significantly larger size, making it ideal for sweet preparations.

Origin

Borrowed from Portuguese abacate. Doublet of avocado.

Usage

Typically used as a loanword from Portuguese; in general English contexts, 'avocado' is the standard term.

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