A1noun1K

Banana

UK /["/bəˈnɑːnə/"]/US /["/bəˈnænə/"]/

Definition

a long curved fruit with a thick yellow skin and that is soft inside, which grows on trees in hot countries

In simple words: A long, yellow fruit that is sweet and soft inside.

Examples

  • a bunch of bananas
  • ripe bananas
  • mashed banana
  • a banana skin/peel
  • He'll go bananas when he finds out.
  • The British press has gone bananas, proclaiming the end of civilization as we know it.

Usage notes

Commonly used in everyday conversation, cooking, and health contexts. Suitable for any audience, but avoid when discussing unrelated topics.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a banana split — a treat with bananas!

Collocations

  • ripe
  • overripe
  • green
  • bunch
  • eat
  • have
  • pick
  • peel
  • skin
  • plant

Synonyms

  • fruit
  • yellow fruit
  • tropical fruit

Common mistakes

  • Saying 'bananas' when referring to one fruit.
  • Confusing 'banana' with 'plantain', another similar fruit.
  • Incorrectly spelling it as 'banna'.