Carrot

Definition

Carrot is a noun. It refers to a root vegetable, typically orange in color, with a crisp texture, belonging to the species *Daucus carota*. It is widely consumed as a food and is known for its high vitamin A content.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkærət/
• Respelling: KAIR-uht

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkærət/
• Respelling: KAIR-uht

The pronunciation of "carrot" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "carrot" originates from the Middle French "carotte," derived from Latin "carota" and Greek "karōton." The root is thought to be related to "ker," meaning "horn," due to the vegetable's horn-like shape.

Derivatives

• Carroty (adjective)
• Carrot-like (adjective)
• Carrot-colored (adjective)
• Carrot-top (noun, informal)
• Carrot-juice (noun)

Synonyms

• Root vegetable
• Edible root
• Orange root

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "carrot" is commonly used to refer to the orange root vegetable, as in "She sliced a carrot for the salad." It can also be used figuratively to indicate an incentive, as in "The promise of a reward was a carrot to motivate the team."

Related Terms

• Parsnip: A similar root vegetable, though typically white in color.
• Vegetable: A plant or part of a plant used as food.
• Edible root: A root that can be consumed as food.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An edible, orange root vegetable (*Daucus carota*) commonly eaten raw, cooked, or in juice: Known for its high beta-carotene content, which the body converts to vitamin A.
  • Example: "She added chopped carrot to the soup for added nutrition."
• A figurative incentive or reward: Used in expressions like "carrot and stick" to describe motivation through rewards and consequences.
  • Example: "The bonus was a carrot to encourage employees to meet their targets."