Search Dictionary
Definition of pumpkin

pumpkin

/ˈpʌmp.kɪn/
pump · kin
Plural:pumpkins
JUMP TO:

pumpkin Lexical Profile

pumpkin Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A large, rounded, orange-yellow fruit of a trailing vine of the gourd family, widely cultivated for food, pies, and ornamental purposes.

Example

"Every October, the children visit the local patch to pick out a giant pumpkin for carving into a jack-o'-lantern."

2

An affectionate term of endearment, often used for a child or a romantic partner.

Example

"It is time to get ready for bed, my little pumpkin."

3

A strong, vibrant orange color resembling the skin of a ripe pumpkin.

Example

"She decided to paint her front door a cheerful pumpkin to welcome the autumn season."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for pumpkin

• Rhymes for pumpkin

• Nearby Words

puma
pump
pumpernickel
pumpkin
pumpkin seed
pumpkinseed
punch

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Greek word 'pepon', meaning 'large melon'. It entered French as 'pompon' and early Modern English as 'pumpion', eventually becoming 'pumpkin' in the 17th century with the addition of the English diminutive suffix '-kin'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Pumpkin. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 21, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/pumpkin
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.