What is a berry?

A berry is defined as a type of fruit that typically features multiple seeds embedded within the fleshy part. This characteristic distinguishes berries from other types of fruit, as they develop from a single ovary of a flower and mature into a soft, juicy consistency. Examples of true berries include strawberries, blueberries, and grapes, all of which contain seeds dispersed throughout the fruit.

The definition of a berry is important in botany because it can clarify how certain fruits are categorized based on their botanical characteristics rather than common usage. In contrast, options that suggest a hard outer shell, single seeds, or seedless varieties describe different types of fruit, which do not fit the botanical criteria for what constitutes a berry. This distinction helps in understanding plant biology and the wide variety of fruit types in nature.