Etymology Map
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Carob

3 stages from Arabic to English.

Today it means the edible pod of a Mediterranean evergreen tree, often used as a chocolate substitute

Where does the word "carob" come from? It comes from Arabic kharrub, passing through Middle French before entering English (1540s).

1
Stage 1 of 3
kharrub
Arabic · medieval
"locust bean pod"
named the sweet, edible pod of a Mediterranean evergreen tree
2
Stage 2 of 3
carobe
Middle French · 1400s
"carob pod"
adopted the pod and its Arabic name through Mediterranean trade
3
Stage 3 of 3
carob
English · 1540s
"edible pod, chocolate substitute"
entered English as the common name for the tree and its pod
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