Definition: A fruit or vegetable which has ripened.
Alright class, settle down and let’s take a look! That’s a perfectly good definition from the dictionary, you see – “A fruit or vegetable which has ripened.” But what does that really mean? Let's break it down with a little rhyme: “Ripe” describes something at its best, you know, When flavors burst and colors glow! It’s past the green, the firm, the tight, Reaching fullness, shining bright. Think of a peach, plump and sweet, Or berries blushing, a juicy treat. They've changed from hard to soft and mellow, That's when they’re ripe, you know it fellow! Essentially, “ripe” means something is ready to be enjoyed – its sugars have developed, its texture has softened, and it’s at the peak of its deliciousness. It's gone through a natural process of change and transformation. Do you understand now? Any questions about what ‘ripe’ signifies?