# bartlett

/ˈbɑɹtɫɪt/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bartlett
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. a type of pear

noun · CEFR B2 · American English

a popular type of pear that is sweet and juicy, often turning from green to yellow as it ripens.

For teachers: a specific variety of pear (Pyrus communis), widely cultivated for its sweet flavor and smooth texture; known internationally as the Williams pear.

- She sliced a ripe Bartlett pear to serve with the cheese plate.
- The orchard specializes in Bartlett pears, harvesting them while still firm to ensure they reach peak ripeness during transport to local markets.

Usage: Usually capitalized as it is named after Enoch Bartlett, who popularized the variety in the United States.

## Examples

- We sliced the Bartlett pear for the salad.
- The chef chose ripe Bartlett pears because their soft texture melts perfectly into the warm sauce.
- While Asian pears remain crisp when eaten raw, the Bartlett variety softens considerably upon ripening, making it ideal for poaching or baking.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.