English Explanatory Dictionary

Adam's apple

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. The lump in the throat, usually more noticeable in men than in women; the laryngeal prominence.
  2. Any of species Tabernaemontana divaricata of fragrant houseplants, native to southeast Asia.
  3. Any of hybrid species Musa × paradisiaca, of cultivated bananas.
  4. A citron (Citrus limetta, syn. of Citrus medica).

Pronunciation

LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-Adam's apple.wav

Word forms

Adam's apple Adam's apples

Etymology

Calque of Latin pomum Adami, which is found in the botanical sense from 1560 and the anatomical sense from 1600. According to the earliest sources, the anatomical usage derives from a common belief that Adam was punished by God for the fall of man by having a piece of the forbidden fruit lodged in his throat (see 1662 citation).

Synonyms

Adam's morsel apple apple of Adam laryngeal prominence goozle crape jasmine pinwheel flower Nero's crown butterfly gardenia carnation of India East Indian rosebay Tabernaemontana coronaria coffee rose crepe gardenia
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