Definition

A type of vine that produces yellowish, green-mottled fruits, which are small and resemble lemons. The fruit has a bitter pulp that is used as a strong laxative.

Example

The herbalist recommended colocynth for its powerful laxative properties.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the colocynth?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's a vine that produces these weird fruits that look like small lemons.

That sounds interesting! I wonder if they taste good.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Colocynth is derived from the Greek word "kolokynthis" (meaning gourd or cucumber), which refers to the plant's fruit. The term has been adopted into English to describe the bitter fruit of the colocynth plant, often used in traditional medicine.

Memory Tip

Imagine a gourd or cucumber when you think of colocynth, as the word comes from the Greek for gourd, highlighting the plant's fruit.

Visually Confused Words