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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