balsam apple

noun

1. a climbing Old World tropical vine, Momordica balsamina, of the gourd family.
2. the orange, ovoid, warty fruit of this vine.

balsam apple

noun

1. an ornamental cucurbitaceous vine, Momordica balsamina , of the Old World tropics, with yellow flowers and orange egg-shaped fruits

Word History and Origins

Origin of balsam apple¹

First recorded in 1570–80

Example Sentences

From a vine clambering up the grape arbor trellies, in the fall of the year, hung numerous orange-colored balsam apples, which opened, when ripe, disclosing bright crimson interior and seeds.

From Project Gutenberg

Cut a ripe balsam apple in small pieces, and fill a bottle with it; pour Holland gin on it.

From Project Gutenberg