
Lime is a citrus fruit that is typically round, green, and sour. It is often used to add a tangy flavor to foods and beverages, and its juice and zest are popular ingredients in many cuisines around the world. Limes are a good source of vitamin C and are known for their high acidity. The fruit grows on lime trees, which are usually thorny and belong to the flowering plant family Rutaceae. Limes are believed to have originated in the tropical and subtropical regions of Southeast Asia. The word "lime" comes from the Middle English word "lyme," which may have been derived from the Old French word "lime." In Hebrew, lime is called לימון (limon), which is also the word for lemon. In Spanish, lime is called limón, while in French, it is citron vert. In Arabic, lime is known as ليمون (laymun), which is also the word for lemon. Limes are often confused with lemons, but they are distinct fruits with different flavors and uses. Limes are smaller, rounder, and greener than lemons, and they have a more acidic and less bitter taste. Limes are commonly used in dishes such as guacamole, ceviche, and key lime pie, as well as in beverages like limeade and margaritas.