A2noun1K

Lemon

UK /["/ˈlemən/"]/US /["/ˈlemən/"]/

Definition

a yellow citrus fruit with juice that has a bitter, sharp taste. Slices of lemon and lemon juice are used in cooking and drinks.

In simple words: A yellow, sour fruit used in drinks and cooking.

Examples

  • Add a squeeze of **lemon juice**.
  • Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the fish.
  • a glass of sparkling water with ice and lemon
  • lemon tea
  • a lemon tree
  • Garnish the fish with wedges of lemon.

Usage notes

Use in both casual and formal settings. Appropriate in culinary contexts, but avoid using as a metaphor for something unpleasant unless in informal conversations (e.g., 'a lemon of a car').

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'lemonade'—a drink made from lemons that’s super sour but refreshing.

Collocations

  • fresh
  • slice
  • wedge
  • cake
  • squeeze
  • slice
  • garnish something with
  • tree
  • pip
  • seed

Synonyms

  • dud
  • idiot

Antonyms

  • sweet fruit
  • delight

Common mistakes

  • Confusing it with 'lime', which is smaller and green.
  • Using 'lemon' when referring to an orange fruit.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'lemony' instead of accurately.