Learner's definition of RIPE
[also more ripe; most ripe]
of fruits and vegetables
fully grown and developed and ready to be eaten
— sometimes used figuratively
not used before a noun
ready or suitable for something
— usually + for
The army was ripe for action.
a system that is ripe for abuse [=a system that is in such bad condition that it could easily be used wrongly]
The time was ripe for proposing his plan.
We'll make these changes when the time is ripe.
of food and especially cheese
brought to full flavor or the best state by being stored for a period of time
having a strong and unpleasant smell
ripe old age
a very old age
— sometimes used humorously