Mesquite
(noun)
- A spiny, bushy tree or shrub that is native to the southwestern US and Mexico and is widely grown for its beans, which are used to make flour, and for its wood, which is used for fuel and for making furniture and tools.
- The wood of this tree.
Origin:
Early 18th century: from spanish mezquite, from nahuatl mizquitl.
Examples:
- The mesquite tree was a vital resource for the indigenous people of the desert Southwest.
- He grilled steak over mesquite charcoal for a smoky flavor.
- The mesquite tree provided shade and food for the wildlife in the desert.
- Mesquite flour is a staple ingredient in traditional Native American cuisine.
- The mesquite wood was strong and durable, perfect for carving into tools and weapons.