geniting

Definition

A variety of apple that ripens very early

Etymology

Probably from a diminutive of French Jean (“John”), so named as becoming ripe about St. John’s Day, June 24.

Example Sentences

• "In July come gilliflowers of all varieties, musk-roses, the lime-tree in blossom, early pears, and plums, in fruit, genitings, codlins[…]"