Definition of the word custard apple

The term "custard apple" is a common English name for the annona fruit, which belongs to the annónaceae family. The origin of this catchy name can be traced back to the 17th century when the fruit was brought to Europe from the Americas by Spanish or Portuguese colonizers. As the fruit's flesh had a smooth texture and a sweet, creamy flavor, reminiscent of custard, British settlers in the Caribbean named it "custard apple" in reference to the popular British dessert, custard. The name quickly spread to other English-speaking countries, where it remains a common moniker for the fruit even today.