The Words “Plum” and “Prune” Share the Same Etymological Roots

Why don’t we refer to prunes as dried plums? Prune and plum come from the same distant etymological roots and traveled into English via French and German respectively. The French still use prune for “plum.” Other foods that undergo a name change once they’re dried include poblano peppers, which become anchos; jalapeños, which become chipotle peppers; and cranberries, the dried version of which become craisins. This is part of a complete episode.