apple

A2 · Elementary Countable noun Science

n. the tree that grows apples.

n. any tree of the genus Malus, especially those cultivated for their edible fruit.

“We sat under the old apple tree to stay out of the sun.”

“The farmer decided to prune the apple trees in late winter to encourage more vigorous growth during the spring season.”

A2 · Elementary Countable noun Computing

n. a computer or electronic device made by the company Apple Inc.

n. a proprietary electronic device, such as a computer or smartphone, manufactured by Apple Inc.

“He bought a new Apple laptop for his university studies.”

“The office recently upgraded its entire fleet of workstations to the latest Apple models to ensure software compatibility across the design team.”

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun Informal

n. a nickname for New York City, usually called 'the Big Apple'.

n. a popular nickname for New York City, almost exclusively used in the definite construction 'the Big Apple'.

“It was her first time visiting the Big Apple, and she was amazed by the lights.”

“Tourism in the Big Apple reached record highs last year, with millions of visitors flocking to Times Square and Central Park.”

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Sports Slang

n. a pass that helps a teammate score a goal.

n. a colloquial term for an assist, particularly in ice hockey.

“The captain got another apple after setting up the winning goal.”

“He finished the season with twenty goals and thirty apples, proving his value as a playmaker for the team.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Slang · Vulgar · American English

n. an offensive word for a Native American person who is accused of acting like a white person.

n. a derogatory ethnic slur directed at a Native American person perceived as having assimilated into white culture.

“The speaker explained why using the word apple as a slur is hurtful.”

“The documentary explored the painful history of ethnic slurs, including the term apple, and their impact on indigenous communities.”

C2 · Proficiency Science Technical · Dialect

v. to grow or turn into the shape of an apple.

v. to take on the physical characteristics or rounded shape of an apple, often used in botanical contexts.

“The vegetable began to apple as it matured in the garden.”

“Certain root vegetables tend to apple if the soil is too compact, resulting in a stunted, spherical growth pattern.”