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kumquat

/ˈkʌm.kwɒt/ Chinese Origin Food & Drink

Original Word

金橘

Cantonese (kam kwat)

Entered English

Mid 17th century

First recorded usage in English

The Story Behind "kumquat"

From Cantonese 'kam kwat' (金橘), literally 'golden orange', a small oval citrus fruit. Introduced to Europe by Robert Fortune in the 19th century.

Example Usage

"She garnished the cocktail with a slice of kumquat."

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