Step 1 : Introduction to the question "What identifies a cranberry as ripe?"
People used to call cranberries "bounceberries" because they bounce when they're ripe. Some called them "crane-berries" because the blossoms on the plants resembled sand hill cranes. Over time, the name shortened to just "cranberries." Along with blueberries and Concord grapes, cranberries are North America's only true native fruits. Cranberry vines are hearty, many producing fruit for up to 150 years. The tart berries straight from the vine are too much for any except wild bears. Once the berries are bouncing, however, people are more than happy to make them into jams, jellies and other tasty treats. Source: FoodSiteMagazine.com