[Fr., from L. fructus.] The matured seed vessel and its contents. Thus the ears are the fruit of the corn plant, nuts are the fruit of the hazel tree, pods the fruit of the bean or pea, and the acorn the fruit of the oak. In the apple, orange, etc., the seeds are imbedded in a soft, juicy, fleshy substance ; in dry fruits, such as nuts, the seed or kernel is surrounded by a hard shell; in drupaceous or stone fruit, as peaches, the fruits are stony within and fleshy without. Small fruits include currants, gooseberries, raspberries, strawberries, etc.

THE BANANA.