Definition of the word lime

The word "lime" has a fascinating history! It originated from the Arabic term "limah," which referred to a type of citron or lemon. The Arabic word was then adopted into Middle English as "lime," likely due to the Crusades and cultural exchange between the Eastern and Western worlds. Initially, the term "lime" referred specifically to the fruit, but over time, it shifted to describe the alkaline substance extracted from the fruit's rinds. By the 16th century, "lime" was also used to describe the acidic properties of the substance, which was used to treat various ailments and used in construction and manufacturing processes. Today, the word "lime" encompasses both the fruit and the alkaline compound, with many uses in industries and everyday life.