olive

ol-ive · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    (noun) A small oval fruit with a hard stone, green when unripe and bluish-black when ripe, used as food and for oil.

  2. 2.

    (noun) The evergreen tree (Olea europaea) that produces olives.

  3. 3.

    (adjective/noun) A yellowish-brown or greenish-brown color.

Forms

plural: olives

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    olive branch — A symbol of peace; an offer of reconciliation
  • •
    olive oil — Oil extracted from olives
  • •
    olive complexion — A warm, slightly greenish-brown skin tone
  • •
    olive drab — A grayish-olive color used in military uniforms

Related words

See also: mediterranean, oil, olives
Synonyms: olive fruit

Etymology

From Latin oliva, from Greek elaia ("olive tree, olive"). The word has ancient Mediterranean origins.