What is a carrot?

According to Wikipedia, a carrot is a root vegetable that is typically orange in color^[1], but can also come in other colors such as purple, black, red, white, and yellow. It is a domesticated form of the wild carrot, native to Europe and Southwestern Asia^[1]. The carrot plant belongs to the umbellifer family and is biennial, meaning it completes its life cycle in two years. The most commonly eaten part of the^[1] carrot is the taproot, although the stems and leaves^[1] can also be consumed. Carrots are rich in nutrients such as alpha- and beta-carotene, vitamin A, vitamin K, and vitamin B6. They are commonly consumed raw or cooked in various cuisines^[1]. The word "carrot" is derived from the Middle French carotte^[1], which came from the Late Latin carōta^[1], originally from the ancient Greek καρωτόν (karōtón), due to its horn-like shape. Carrots were first cultivated for their leaves and seeds and are believed to have originated in Persia. They were introduced to Europe^[1], including Spain^[1], by the Moors in the 8th century^[1]. The modern orange carrot was^[1] created in the Netherlands in the 17th century^[1]. Carrot cultivation spread to other parts of the world, including China^[1], Japan^[1], and colonial America^[1]. Carrots can be classified into different types based on their root shape, such as Chantenay, Danvers^[1], Imperator, and Nantes^[1]. They can be stored in the refrigerator or in a cool, dry place for several months. Carrots are used in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, stews, cakes, and as a fresh snack. They can also be juiced and used in jams and preserves. Carrots are rich in nutrients, particularly beta-carotene, which can be converted into vitamin A in the body. The consumption of carrots was^[1] promoted in Britain^[1] during World War II as part of a campaign to encourage people to grow and use carrots due to their nutritional value. However, the belief that carrots can significantly improve night vision is a myth.

In conclusion, according to Wikipedia, a carrot is a root vegetable that is commonly orange in color but can come in other colors as well. It is rich in nutrients and can be consumed in various ways. The word "carrot" originated from the ancient Greek word meaning "horn" due to its shape.