greengage

[ green-geyj ]

noun

1. any of several varieties of light-green plums, as Prunus insititia italica.

greengage

/ ˈɡriːnˌɡeɪdʒ /

noun

1. a cultivated variety of plum tree, Prunus domestica italica, with edible green plumlike fruits
2. the fruit of this tree

Word History and Origins

Origin of greengage¹

1715–25; green + Gage, after Sir William Gage, 18th-century English botanist who introduced such varieties from France circa 1725

Word History and Origins

Origin of greengage¹

C18: green + -gage, after Sir W. Gage (1777–1864), English botanist who brought it from France

Example Sentences

Speaking of the greengage, he says, "its taste is so exquisitely sweet and delicious, that nothing can exceed it."

From Project Gutenberg

So Harry went to Jane, to see her dish up greengage plums which he must not touch: and Hugh ran up the stairs.

From Project Gutenberg

The pits of greengage plums they cracked between their teeth for the kernels inside.

From Project Gutenberg

One pint of greengage plums, after being rubbed through a sieve, one large cup of sugar, the yolks of two eggs well beaten.

From Project Gutenberg

She held up her hand for a catch, and with resignation he threw her another greengage.

From Project Gutenberg