Overripe (adjective)

Describing a fruit or vegetable that has been left on the plant or tree for too long and has become over-mature, resulting in a softer texture and stronger flavor.

Origin:

Formed from the prefix "over-" meaning "excess" or "beyond" and the root word "ripe" meaning "mature or fully developed", the word "overripe" came into use in the late 16th century.

Examples:

1. The banana was overripe and had brown spots all over its skin.
2. The overripe tomatoes were no longer suitable for eating raw, but they could still be used for cooking.
3. The apple was overripe and had a mealy texture.
4. The overripe peaches had a sweet, rich aroma.
5. The overripe fruit can be used for baking and making jams.