English Reference

Word

citrus

Phoneticscit·rus

US/ˈsɪtɹəs/

UK/sˈɪtɹəs/

Definitions

01the fruit

B2

n. a type of fruit with a thick skin and juicy sections, such as an orange, lemon, or grapefruit.

n. the fruit of any plant in the genus Citrus, typically featuring a leathery rind and acidic, pulpy segments.

“The doctor told him to eat more citrus to get enough vitamin C.”

“The region's economy relies heavily on the export of citrus, particularly the high-quality oranges grown in the southern valleys.”

Usage

Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the category of fruit.

Synonyms

citrus fruit

02the tree

C1 · Science

n. a tree or shrub that grows fruits like lemons and oranges.

n. any evergreen tree or shrub belonging to the genus Citrus.

“The garden was filled with the sweet smell of flowering citrus.”

“Agricultural scientists are developing new hybrids of citrus that can withstand colder temperatures and resist common fungal infections.”

Technical

Usage

Usually countable when referring to specific botanical species.

03relating to citrus

B2

adj. having the flavour, smell, or qualities of fruits like lemons and oranges.

adj. of, relating to, or characteristic of citrus plants or their fruit.

“This perfume has a fresh citrus scent that is perfect for summer.”

“The chef added a citrus dressing to the salad to balance the richness of the grilled salmon.”

Usage

Usually sits before the noun it describes.

Synonyms

Real-World Examples

“How is it possible that the sixth largest citrus producer in the world and the first in the European Union needs to import oranges?”
The Local · 18 Sept 2026
“Earth had no palm trees, grasses or citrus fruits.”
Smithsonian Magazine · 18 Sept 2026
“Could trees developed with gene-editing technology protect Florida's citrus industry?”
NPR · 18 Sept 2026
“Citrus, bell peppers and tomatoes are some good options, she says.”
The Guardian · 14 Aug 2026

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency
Frequent
Updated

Scan code

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English Reference