jackfruit

[ jak-froot ]

noun

1. a large, tropical, milky-juiced tree, Artocarpus heterophyllus, of the mulberry family, having stiff and glossy green leaves, cultivated for its very large, edible fruit and seeds.
2. the fruit of this tree, which may weigh up to 70 pounds (32 kilograms).

jackfruit

/ ˈdʒækˌfruːt /

noun

1. a tropical Asian moraceous tree, Artocarpus heterophyllus
2. the edible fruit of this tree, which resembles breadfruit and can weigh up to 27 kilograms (60 pounds)

Word History and Origins

Origin of jackfruit¹

First recorded in 1810–20; jack ³ + fruit

Word History and Origins

Origin of jackfruit¹

C19: from Portuguese jaca , from Malayalam cakka

Example Sentences

“There’s fruits, jackfruit and durian, these look like ‘Avatar’ fruits,’” Mulaney joked.

From Los Angeles Times

“I am growing jackfruit and coconut,” he said.

From Seattle Times

The main course was a jackfruit pastry served with glazed forest mushrooms, millet crisps and curry leaf tossed Kerala red rice.

From Reuters

Twice I tried to order vegan versions of chicken here, made with jackfruit, and twice they were unavailable.

From Washington Post

It stands in a gated compound shaded by giant mango and jackfruit trees, beneath which clothes hang on a line to dry.

From BBC