Nut Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
ð°
nut
[nĘt ]
Definitions
food
a hard-shelled fruit or seed with an edible kernel
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| nut |
Generally refers to the whole, edible seed of certain plants, typically with a hard shell.
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| seed |
Is a more general term for a small, typically hard, plant part that can grow into a new plant. Seeds can come from fruits, vegetables, and flowers, as well as nuts.
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| kernel |
Usually refers to the softer, usually edible part inside the shell of a nut, or the seed inside the fruit of plants like corn.
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| nutmeat |
Specifically refers to the edible inner part of a nut, often used in culinary contexts.
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Examples of usage
- She cracked open a nut to get to the delicious center.
- Nuts are a good source of healthy fats and protein.
machinery
a small block made of metal or other material, typically hexagonal, with a hole through the center for a bolt or screw
Synonyms
bolt nut, fastener, screw nut.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| nut |
Commonly used in general conversation or informal contexts to refer to a metal piece with a threaded hole, used with a bolt for fastening things together.
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| fastener |
A more general term that can include nuts, bolts, screws, and other types of connectors. Used in formal or technical contexts.
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| screw nut |
Less common term, but used to specify that the nut is used with a screw rather than a bolt. It can appear in technical manuals or specific instructions.
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| bolt nut |
Specifically refers to the nut used in conjunction with a bolt, typically in technical or mechanical settings.
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Examples of usage
- He tightened the nut with a wrench.
- Make sure all the nuts and bolts are securely fastened.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Nutrition
- Nuts are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which makes them beneficial for heart health.
- Certain varieties, like walnuts, are known to have high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for brain function.
- Regular consumption of nuts has been linked to reduced risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and diabetes.
Cultural Significance
- Nuts play a significant role in many cultures, often symbolizing prosperity and fertility during celebrations like weddings.
- In Chinese culture, nuts are commonly consumed during the Lunar New Year for their auspicious meanings and as offerings to ancestors.
Pop Culture
- The character 'Squirrel Nutkin' from Beatrix Potter's book is a mischievous little squirrel known for his love of nuts.
- In movies, nuts often appear as a symbol of health and fitness, representing energy and vitality.
Botanical Facts
- Not all seeds are classified as nuts; true nuts are a specific group that includes chestnuts and acorns.
- Some of the most well-known nut-producing trees include walnut trees, almond trees, and pecan trees, which are cultivated worldwide.
Origin of 'nut'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'nut' comes from Middle English 'nute', which traces back to Old English 'gnutu', meaning a kernel or seed.
- In various languages, the word for 'nut' is often similar, reflecting the common understanding of this food across cultures.
The word 'nut' originated from the Old English word 'hnutu', which is of Germanic origin. Nuts have been an essential part of human diets for thousands of years, providing a good source of nutrients and energy. In machinery, the term 'nut' refers to a small block used with a bolt or screw to fasten parts together.
See also: nutmeat.