Banana Definition, Meaning and Synonyms
By Muneeza Rehman & Muazma Batool — Updated on April 29, 2024
Discover the correct use of 'Benana,' often mistakenly spelled as 'Banana,' and learn to distinguish between these frequently confused English words. Our guide offers insights and tips for accurate spelling and usage.
Banana Definitions
In informal contexts, something curved or crescent-shaped.
The moon looked like a banana in the night sky.
Muazma Batool
Jan 30, 2024
In comedy, a prop used to simulate a comedic slip.
The actor slipped on a banana peel, causing laughter.
Bronson
Jan 30, 2024
A derogatory term for an Asian person perceived as being Westernized (yellow on the outside, white on the inside).
He was unfairly labeled a banana by his peers.
Muneeza Rehman
Jan 30, 2024
A tropical fruit with a yellow peel and sweet, soft flesh.
Bananas are a popular choice for a healthy snack.
Muneeza Rehman
Jan 30, 2024
The herbaceous plant of the genus Musa, on which this fruit grows.
The banana plant in our garden finally bore fruit.
Asaiah
Jan 30, 2024
In economics, a reference to countries primarily exporting bananas.
The term 'banana republic' originated from countries with economies dependent on this fruit.
Asaiah
Jan 30, 2024
A term used in sports for a ball's curved trajectory.
He kicked the ball in a perfect banana shot.
Maverick
Jan 30, 2024
A term in gymnastics for an incorrect form where the body curves.
The coach corrected her banana shape on the balance beam.
Smith
Jan 30, 2024
Any of several treelike plants of the genus Musa, especially M. acuminata, having a terminal crown of large, entire leaves and a hanging cluster of fruits.
Muneeza Rehman
Jan 30, 2024
The elongated, edible fruit of these plants, having a thick yellowish to reddish skin and whitish, pulpy flesh.
Muneeza Rehman
Jan 30, 2024
Banana Synonyms
Plantain
A type of banana from a group of cultivars with firmer, starchier fruit, commonly used in cooking.
Plantains are often fried or boiled in Caribbean cuisine.
Muneeza Rehman
Apr 29, 2024
Tropical fruit
Fruits that are native to the tropic regions, banana being a common example.
Banana is a staple tropical fruit enjoyed worldwide.
Muneeza Rehman
Apr 29, 2024
Yellow fruit
A descriptive term for fruits that are typically yellow when ripe, such as bananas.
A ripe yellow fruit, the banana is sweet and soft.
Muneeza Rehman
Apr 29, 2024
Curved fruit
A term used for fruits that have a noticeable curved shape, like bananas.
The curved fruit of the banana makes it distinctive.
Muneeza Rehman
Apr 29, 2024
Peelable fruit
Fruit that has a skin which can be removed manually, like a banana.
Bananas and oranges are popular as peelable fruits for easy eating.
Muneeza Rehman
Apr 29, 2024
Fruit staple
A basic or essential fruit item in diets, such as bananas in many tropical regions.
In tropical areas, the banana is a crucial fruit staple.
Muneeza Rehman
Apr 29, 2024
Snack fruit
Fruits that are commonly eaten as snacks; bananas are a convenient choice.
A banana is a perfect snack fruit for a quick energy boost.
Kalel
Apr 29, 2024
Soft fruit
Describes fruits with a soft flesh inside; bananas qualify when ripe.
Bananas become soft fruit as they ripen, turning sweeter and mushier.
Camila
Apr 29, 2024
Potassium source
Referring to foods that are high in potassium, bananas being a well-known example.
Eating a banana can be a good way to replenish potassium naturally.
Darian
Apr 29, 2024
Dessert banana
A category of bananas that are sweet and often eaten raw or used in desserts.
The dessert banana is best enjoyed when fully ripe.
Muneeza Rehman
Apr 29, 2024
Banana Idioms
Banana republic
A small, politically unstable country with an economy dependent on a single export.
The novel was set in a stereotypical banana republic.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 03, 2024
Banana skin
Something that causes or is likely to cause embarrassment or trouble.
His careless remark was a banana skin during the negotiations.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 03, 2024
Top banana
The leading person in a group or organization.
As the top banana, she made all the important decisions.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 03, 2024
Banana oil
Nonsense or flattery; insincere talk.
Don't believe his promises; it's all banana oil.
Maverick
Feb 03, 2024
Second banana
A person in a subordinate position.
He was content being the second banana in the comedy duo.
Muazma Batool
Feb 03, 2024
Banana split
A dessert consisting of a banana cut in half lengthwise with scoops of ice cream and toppings.
They shared a banana split at the diner.
Muazma Batool
Feb 03, 2024
Slip on a banana peel
To make a silly or embarrassing mistake.
He slipped on a banana peel by forgetting his lines on stage.
Xavier
Feb 03, 2024
Banana belt
An area with a warmer climate than the surrounding regions.
We moved to the banana belt for its mild winters.
Kalel
Feb 03, 2024
Banana Meaning in a Sentence
The baby's first solid food was a mashed banana.
Darian
Feb 03, 2024
She packed a banana for her child's lunchbox.
Darian
Feb 03, 2024
I love banana-flavored ice cream.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 03, 2024
He peeled a banana for his afternoon snack.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 03, 2024
Can you add a banana to this fruit salad?
Muazma Batool
Feb 03, 2024
I prefer my banana slightly green and firm.
Bronson
Feb 03, 2024
We're making banana bread this weekend.
Darian
Feb 03, 2024
I learned that banana plants are actually herbs.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 03, 2024
She drew a banana in her art class.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 03, 2024
He joked about slipping on a banana peel.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 03, 2024
The monkey at the zoo was eating a banana.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 03, 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
What part of speech is 'banana'?
In most contexts, 'banana' is a noun, but it can be used adjectivally in certain contexts like 'banana flavor.'
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 03, 2024
What is the origin of the word 'banana'?
The word 'banana' is thought to be of West African origin, possibly from the Wolof word 'banaana', and passed into English via Spanish or Portuguese.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 03, 2024
Is 'banana' a countable or uncountable noun?
'Banana' is a countable noun; you can have one banana, two bananas, etc.
Muazma Batool
Feb 03, 2024
How is 'banana' pronounced?
'Banana' is pronounced as /bəˈnæn.ə/ in American English.
Camila
Feb 03, 2024
Are there different types of bananas?
Yes, there are many varieties of bananas, including Cavendish, plantain, and red bananas.
Muazma Batool
Feb 03, 2024
Is 'banana' ever used in a negative context?
Rarely in a direct sense, but phrases like 'banana republic' have a negative connotation.
Muneeza Rehman
Feb 03, 2024
Can 'banana' be used in idiomatic expressions?
Yes, 'banana' appears in idioms like 'go bananas' or 'top banana.'
Xavier
Feb 03, 2024
Does 'banana' have any synonyms in English?
Not exactly, but 'plantain' is often used for a type of cooking banana.
Darian
Feb 03, 2024
Can 'banana' be used metaphorically?
Yes, it can be used metaphorically, as in describing something as 'going bananas' meaning going crazy or wild.
Smith
Feb 03, 2024
How do you use 'banana' in culinary contexts?
In cooking, 'banana' is used to refer to the fruit, as in 'banana bread' or 'banana smoothie.'
Asaiah
Feb 03, 2024
What is the botanical classification of a banana?
A banana is classified as a berry from the genus Musa.
Xavier
Feb 03, 2024
Is 'banana' used differently in different English-speaking countries?
Yes, the usage can vary. For instance, in British English, 'banana' can be colloquially used to describe something foolish.
Camila
Feb 03, 2024
Can 'banana' be used in a technical or scientific context?
Yes, 'banana' is used scientifically to refer to the fruit and the plant of the genus Musa.
Asaiah
Feb 03, 2024
What nutrients are bananas known for?
Bananas are known for being rich in potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber.
Bronson
Feb 03, 2024
Content Creators
Written by
Muneeza RehmanAt Definitions Wiki, Muneeza's commitment to clarity and precision extends beyond the realm of definitions. She believes that a thorough understanding of words empowers individuals to communicate effectively and appreciate the beauty of language in all its forms.
Co-written by
Muazma BatoolAs a copywriter, Muazma weaves words into a tapestry of compelling stories that capture hearts and minds. With a keen eye for detail and a mastery of language, she crafts messages that move people to action and create lasting impact.
