Langimage
English

mesquite

|mes-quite|

B2

/mɛˈskiːt/

hardwood tree

Etymology
Etymology Information

'mesquite' originates from the Nahuatl language, specifically the word 'mizquitl', where 'mizquitl' referred to the mesquite tree.

Historical Evolution

'mizquitl' transformed into the Spanish word 'mezquite', and eventually became the modern English word 'mesquite'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it referred specifically to the tree, but over time it evolved to include its wood and pods.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a type of tree or shrub native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, known for its hard wood and sweet pods.

The mesquite tree is often used for barbecue wood.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/07/07 19:16