Codling

Codling primarily refers to a young or immature apple, a small or unripe apple. This term is also sometimes applied to other fruits in a similar state of development. The word suggests a stage before full ripeness, often implying a tart or sour taste. It can also describe a specific variety of apple, the Codlin apple, known for its early ripening and use in cooking. Figuratively, codling may allude to something in its formative, undeveloped stage, lacking maturity or full potential.

Codling meaning with examples

• The orchard was filled with green codlings, promising a bountiful harvest later in the season. Their tartness was a far cry from the sweet apples that were to ripen later. The premature fruit seemed vulnerable, hanging precariously from the branches, exposed to birds and insects. This was not how the apples should be, but it gave an example of what was to come.
• She carefully picked the codlings from the tree, intending to make a delicious sauce with them, their acidity worked perfectly for the recipe. These were the best apples for this, her grandmother always said. The crisp, slightly sour fruit was a welcome change from the sweeter varieties. Preserving the apples was to make the flavors last, a tradition in her family.
• The harsh weather conditions had stunted the growth of the fruit, leaving the apples as tiny codlings. They resembled miniature versions of what they were meant to be. The stunted growth in the codlings mirrored that in the farmers bank account, as they knew a bad crop season would hit them hard. The early frost had ruined a lot.
• The recipe called for codlings, specifically those known for their firm texture when cooked and for their flavor. She only used these apples for this reason. The chef knew that any other type of apple would not work as well. These specific types, when preserved, retained a remarkable flavor, making for excellent desserts and pastries.
• The project was still in its codling phase, its ideas yet to fully mature and be set in stone, and many things needed to be changed. The project was being worked on, but only a little. It was not fully ready. The team was busy working, to perfect the plans. These were the first small steps to something great.