banana

word

/bəˈnænə/
buh-NA-nuh
/bɐnˈɑːnɐ/
buh-NAH-nuh

Definition

A banana is a long, curved tropical fruit with a yellow skin and soft, sweet flesh inside. People often eat it raw as a snack or use it in desserts, smoothies, and baking.

Usage & Nuances

In everyday English, 'banana' is the normal word for the fruit. In some regions, Spanish 'plátano' can refer to either banana or plantain, but in English 'banana' usually means the sweet fruit eaten raw. Common collocations include 'banana peel', 'banana bread', and 'a bunch of bananas'.

Example Sentences

I eat a banana every morning.

basic

The banana is on the table.

basic

She put a banana in her bag.

basic

Can you grab a banana for me while you're in the kitchen?

natural

This banana is too ripe for lunch, but it's perfect for a smoothie.

natural

Watch out — there's a banana peel on the floor.

natural