clementine

/ˈklɛməntaɪn/

clementine

English Noun Top 20,279

Definition

A type of small, sweet-tasting orange, the result of a hybrid cross between the willowleaf variety of mandarin orange (Citrus × aurantium f. deliciosa) and a sweet orange (Citrus sinensis). Scientific name: Citrus × clementina.

Etymology

From French clémentine, from Clément + -ine, named after French missionary Clément Rodier (1839–1904), who is said to have first bred it. By surface analysis, Clement + -ine.