pitaya

American  

[pi-tahy-uh] / pɪˈtaɪ ə /

noun

1. any of several cacti of the genus Stenocereus, of the southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America, bearing edible round or oval fruit usually having bumpy skin and juicy pulp filled with seeds.

2. the edible fruit of any of several cacti of the genus Stenocereus.

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Etymology

Origin of pitaya

First recorded in 1845–50; variant of pitahaya ( def. )

Example Sentences

HOMESTEAD, Fla. — Dragon fruit, the colorful cactus fruit also known as pitaya, has brought its subtle flavor far and wide this summer, from iced teas at Taco Bell to fruit drinks at Starbucks.

From New York Times • Sep. 23, 2022

The product’s early label had a more complete list: water, sunflower seed oil, raw honey, distilled vinegar, garlic, pitaya, pink Himalayan sea salt and less than 2% dried spices, lemon juice, milk and citric acid.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 27, 2022

According to the website, the condiment contains "water, sunflower seed oil, raw honey, distilled vinegar, garlic, pitaya, pink Himalayan sea salt and less than 2% of dried spices, lemon juice, milk and citric acid."

From Salon • Jul. 22, 2022

Refresh House Juice Bar also does acai and pitaya bowls.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 16, 2022

Birds sang lyrically from their hiding among the pitaya trees.

From The Underdogs, a Story of the Mexican Revolution by Munguía, E. (Enrique)