Definition

A small citrus fruit that is orange or yellow in color, with a sweet rind and a sour pulp, often used in cooking or preserves.

Example

I made a delicious kumquat marmalade for breakfast.

Conversation

Have you ever tried a kumquat?

No, I haven't! What do they taste like?

They are really unique; sweet on the outside and tart inside.

That sounds interesting! I should find some at the market.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Kumquat originates from the Cantonese word "金橘" (gam1gwat1), where "金" (gam1) means gold and "橘" (gwat1) means orange or tangerine. The word refers to the small, golden-orange fruit that resembles a miniature orange.

Memory Tip

Imagine a small, golden-orange fruit that looks like a tiny orange — that's what kumquat means, derived from the Cantonese words for gold and orange.

Visually Confused Words