lime meaning and definition

LIME noun

Definition of lime (noun)

1. a caustic substance produced by heating limestone
   • synonyms: calcium hydrate, calcium hydroxide, caustic lime, hydrated lime, lime hydrate, slaked lime
2. a white crystalline oxide used in the production of calcium hydroxide
   • synonyms: burnt lime, calcined lime, calcium oxide, calx, fluxing lime, quicklime, unslaked lime
3. a sticky adhesive that is smeared on small branches to capture small birds
   • synonyms: birdlime
4. any of various related trees bearing limes
   • synonyms: Citrus aurantifolia, lime tree
5. any of various deciduous trees of the genus Tilia with heart-shaped leaves and drooping cymose clusters of yellowish often fragrant flowers; several yield valuable timber
   • synonyms: basswood, lime tree, linden, linden tree
6. the green acidic fruit of any of various lime trees

LIME verb

Definition of lime (verb)

1. spread birdlime on branches to catch birds
   • synonyms: birdlime
2. cover with lime so as to induce growth
   • "lime the lawn"