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Macadamia Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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macadamia

[məkəˈdamiə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

food type

Macadamia refers to a type of nut that is native to Australia. These nuts are known for their rich, buttery flavor and are often used in cooking and baking, particularly in cookies and desserts. They are also appreciated for their health benefits, as they are high in healthy fats and nutrients.

Synonyms

Australia nut, bush nut.

Examples of usage

  • I love adding macadamia nuts to my oatmeal.
  • She baked a macadamia nut cookie recipe.
  • Eating macadamia nuts can be a healthy snack choice.
  • Macadamia oil is great for cooking due to its high smoke point.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • These nuts are often used in high-end chocolates and desserts due to their creamy texture and rich flavor.
  • They can be roasted, salted, or used as an oil, enhancing both sweet and savory dishes.
  • Macadamia nuts are a popular ingredient in Hawaiian cuisine, often featured in desserts like cookies and pies.

Nutrition

  • Rich in healthy fats, they're known to promote heart health when consumed in moderation.
  • They provide essential nutrients, including vitamins B1, B6, and iron.
  • Despite being high in calories, their nutritional profile can support weight management when included in a balanced diet.

Cultural Significance

  • Indigenous Australians traditionally used the nuts as an important food source long before they became popular in global markets.
  • In Hawaii, macadamia nuts are celebrated as a symbol of the islands' agriculture, with festivals and workshops dedicated to their cultivation.
  • The nut gained worldwide popularity in the late 20th century, spurring growth in the macadamia industry, especially in Hawaii and Australia.

Agriculture

  • Macadamia trees thrive in subtropical climates, requiring specific conditions for optimal growth like well-drained soil.
  • It takes about 7-10 years for the trees to start producing nuts, making them a long-term investment for farmers.
  • Since their inception as a cultivated crop, the demand for macadamia nuts has increased significantly, leading to advances in agricultural practices.

Origin of 'macadamia'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'macadamia' comes from the last name of John Macadam, a Scottish chemist who studied the nut.
  • Originally, the nut was called 'Grevillea' after the plant's botanical family before being named after Macadam.
  • The word first entered the English language in the 1850s.

The word 'macadamia' originates from the name of the Scottish botanist John Macadam, who was influential in the 19th century in the study and classification of plants. The nut itself, however, is native to Australia and was first discovered and utilized by the Indigenous Australians before being introduced to the rest of the world. The Macadamia nut tree (Macadamia integrifolia) was eventually cultivated for its edible seeds, which were recognized for their unique flavor and texture. This led to the nut becoming a popular ingredient in various culinary dishes and snacks. The name was officially adopted as it gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reflecting its association with both the botanist and its Australian heritage.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,448 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.