Pronunciation: [lˈa͡ɪm] (IPA) 
The word "lime" can be spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /laɪm/. The first sound is an open back unrounded vowel sound (/a/), followed by a diphthong (/ɪ/ + /m/). The letter "i" is pronounced as /aɪ/ in this word, while the letter "m" represents a nasal consonant sound (/m/). It is important to spell words correctly to avoid confusion and to ensure effective communication.
Lime is a versatile term which has multiple definitions depending on the context it is used in. Firstly, lime refers to a small, green citrus fruit that grows on trees in tropical and subtropical regions. It is known for its sour taste and is commonly used as a flavoring agent in various culinary dishes and beverages.
Secondly, lime also denotes a white, powdery substance derived from limestone or chalk through the process of heating. This powdery substance, also known as quicklime or calcium oxide, is highly reactive and is commonly used in construction, agriculture, and chemical industries. Lime is often used as a binding agent in mortar, plaster, and concrete, as well as soil conditioner to adjust pH levels.
Additionally, lime can also refer to a type of tree from the genus Tilia, commonly known as the linden tree or basswood. These trees are known for their tall stature and heart-shaped leaves. The wood obtained from these trees is highly valued for its lightness, durability, and use in various woodworking applications, including furniture and carvings.
Furthermore, lime can also refer to a color that is a pale green or yellowish green hue, resembling the color of a lime fruit. This term is often used in art, fashion, and design to describe a specific shade between green and yellow.
In conclusion, lime is a multi-faceted term that encompasses various meanings ranging from a citrus fruit, a powdery substance, a type of tree, to a color shade.
1. Fruit of the lime-tree, Citrus medica, the juice of which is employed to make an acidulous drink. 2. Calcium oxide, CaO, quick lime; on the addition of water this is converted into calcium hydrate, Ca(OH)2, slaked lime; air-slaked lime is formed from quick lime on exposure to air and is a mixture of calcium hydrate and calcium carbonate; lime is official in U.S.P. and B.P. under the name calx.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• The white caustic earth, used, when mixed with water, and most commonly with sand, as mortar or cement, obtained by burning limestone, chalk, marble, &c.; a species of lemontree and its fruit, so called from the glutinous juice of its young shoots.
• To cover or manure with lime; to entangle; to ensnare.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word lime has its origins in the Middle English term lyme, which dates back to the 13th century. However, it can be traced further to the Old English word li(m). The term is derived from the Proto-Germanic root leimaz and the Proto-Indo-European root leie or lei meaning adhesive, sticky, or slime. This reflects the sticky and cohesive characteristic of lime when mixed with water, making it an important material in construction, plastering, and mortar. Additionally, the Latin word limus meaning mud or mire influenced the development of the term lime.
