lime Definition

lime¹
noun

1. loosely
calcium oxide.
2. loosely
slaked lime.
3. loosely
limestone.
4. bird-lime.
5. dialect
Any slimy or gluey substance.

verb liming, limed

1. To cover with lime.
2. To apply ground limestone as a fertilizer to (soil).
3. To trap (usually birds, but sometimes animals) using bird-lime.

Derivative: liminess
noun

Derivative: limy

See separate entry.

Etymology: Anglo-Saxon lim.

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lime²
noun

1. A small, round or oval, green or yellowish-green citrus fruit with a sour taste, used as a garnish, flavouring for drinks, etc.
2. The yellowish-green colour of this fruit.
3. The small spiny evergreen tree, native to Asia, that bears this fruit.

adj

1. Being of a yellowish-green colour.

Form: lime green (often)

Derivative: limy

See separate entry.

Etymology: 17c: from Spanish lima lemon.

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lime³
noun

1. Any of various deciduous trees and shrubs which have heart-shaped leaves and pendulous clusters of fragrant yellow, green or white flowers.

Form: lime-tree (also)
Form: linden
2. The wood from this tree.

Etymology: 17c: from Anglo-Saxon lind linden.