Definition

Freckles are flat, circular spots on the skin of a fruit that typically range in the size of the head of a nail and may be various colors.

Above: Freckle symptoms on a papaya (Carica papaya) fruit, a physiological disorder or effect similar to senescent spots on banana.

Etymology. 1380, probably from O.N. freknur (pl.) "freckles," of unknown origin, perhaps from Middle English frakles, freckles, alteration of fraknes, probably of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Icelandic freknottr, freckly.

Discussion

Freckles on fruits may be caused by infections by plant pathogens, or by physiological processes such as ripening or aging.