Currants can refer to two different things depending on context:

1. Zante currants (or Corinth raisins) are small, dried raisins made from the Black Corinth grape cultivar. They are tiny, sweet, seedless dried grapes used mainly in baking and cooking. These currants originated in Greece, especially the island of Zakynthos (Zante), and are often simply called "currants" in the United States and the UK. Despite the name, they are not related to berries called currants.
2. True currants are small, fresh berries that grow on shrubs of the genus Ribes. They come in varieties such as black, red, pink, or white currants, and have a bright, acidic berry flavor. These fresh currants are commonly eaten fresh or used in jams, jellies, tarts, and sauces, especially popular in northern climates and European cuisines.

In summary, Zante currants are dried grapes (a type of raisin), while true currants are small fresh berries from shrub plants. Both are valued for their flavor and uses in cooking and baking but are botanically distinct.