What is the difference between olive and olive?

Is an olive the same as an olive? The answer is simpler than it seems, but behind these two terms there are interesting nuances that should be explained.

Here are the differences between olives and olives. Will you join us?

What is an olive?

The term “olive” comes from the classical Arabic zaytuñ(a), which means “olive tree” or “fruit of the olive tree”. The Arabic influence in Spain, particularly in the south, left a deep imprint on our language and agricultural traditions.

An olive is the fruit of the olive tree, an emblematic tree of the Mediterranean, especially in regions such as Andalusia. In the agricultural field, “olive” is the word most commonly used in Spain to refer to the fresh fruit, as it is harvested in the field. In addition, this term is commonly used when we talk about the fruit in its processed version, either in brine, seasoned or pitted, as we find it on our table.

Therefore, if you are tasting an appetizer with a tapa of olives aliñadas, you are using the term that has prevailed in everyday use on the peninsula.

What is an olive?

On the other hand, “olive” has a different origin. It derives from Latin, which also translates as “fruit of the olive tree”. This term, although less used in Spain to refer to the fruit in its natural state, is the most common in the international context. For example, in Spanish-speaking countries outside Spain, such as Mexico or Argentina, it is common to hear “oliva” instead of “aceituna”.

In Spain, the term “olive” is most often associated with the oil extracted from this fruit, known as olive oil. We invite you to visit our olive oil museum, where you can discover the rich history and tradition behind this precious liquid. This essential product in our gastronomic culture positions regions like Ronda as a benchmark of quality.

Main differences between olive and olive

Although both terms refer to the same fruit, these are the most significant differences:

1. Etymological origin: “olive” comes from the Arabic zaytuñ(a), while “olive” derives from Latin.
2. Regional and cultural usage: in Spain, “aceituna” is used to refer to the fruit in its fresh or processed form, while “oliva” is more frequent in international contexts.
3. Association with derived products: in Spain, we speak of olives to refer to the fruit and olive oil for the product. In other countries, “olive” tends to be used for both the fruit and the oil.
4. Gastronomic context: if we talk about a fruit seasoned for appetizers, we almost always refer to it as “olive”. On the other hand, in a commercial or gourmet context, “olive” may sound more refined or international.

In short, there is no difference in terms of the fruit itself: both “olive” and “olive” designate the same product, essential for our Mediterranean diet and for the production of the exquisite extra virgin olive oil that we produce at LA Almazara.

The richness of the Spanish language allows us to enjoy these nuances and connects us with a millenary tradition that is still alive in every harvest, every pressing and every drop of the liquid gold that reaches our table. Whether you call it “olive” or “olive”, the quality and flavor of this unique fruit will always be the true protagonists. Discover our full range of gourmet oils in our online oil store.