bitter apple

American  

noun

1. colocynth.

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bitter apple British  

noun

1. another name for colocynth

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Etymology

Origin of bitter apple

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

“You can also use something like bitter apple spray on the entire length of the lights, and that will deter any chewing.”

From Slate • Dec. 7, 2019

One of the principal ingredients in the mummy balsam is colocynth, or bitter apple, powdered.

From The Mirror of Literature, Amusement, and Instruction Volume 14, No. 398, November 14, 1829 by Various

I never prayed that you couldn't eat a bitter apple.

From The Story Girl by Montgomery, L. M. (Lucy Maud)

There was now a delicate odor, everywhere, faintly, like the blossom of the little bitter apple here in your country.

From The Sleuth of St. James's Square by Post, Melville Davisson

"So you've plucked that bitter apple at last!" he answered, in a tone of regret.

From Cobwebs and Cables by Stretton, Hesba