The Collaborative International Dictionary
Nephelium Litchi
Litchi \Li"tchi`\ (l[=e]"ch[=e]`), n. (Bot.) The fruit of a tree native to China ( Nephelium Litchi). It is nutlike, having a rough but tender shell, containing an aromatic pulp, and a single large seed. In the dried fruit which is exported the pulp somewhat resembles a raisin in color and form. [Written also lichi, and lychee.]
2. (Bot.) A genus of East Indian sapindaceous trees consisting of a single species ( Litchi Chinensis, syn. Nephelium Litchi) which bears the litchi nut.