Nut kernel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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nut kernel
[nʌt ˈkɜːrnəl ]
Definition
food source
The hard-shelled fruit of a nut tree containing the seed or meat within, which is commonly consumed as a snack or used in cooking.
Synonyms
nut flesh, nut meat, nut seed.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| nut kernel |
Use this term when discussing the main, edible part of a nut that is usually protected by a hard shell. 'Nut kernel' is often used in the context of food industries or recipes.
|
| nut meat |
Similar to 'nut kernel,' this term refers to the edible part of the nut. 'Nut meat' is often used in cooking and food preparation contexts.
|
| nut seed |
This term is used when emphasizing that the nut is a type of seed. It is often used in agricultural, botanical, or cooking contexts.
|
| nut flesh |
This term is commonly used when you want to emphasize the softer, edible interior of the nut, especially when comparing it to the harder shell. It's often used in culinary contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- The nut kernel is rich in healthy fats and protein.
- She added some chopped nut kernels to the salad for extra crunch.
- He enjoys snacking on roasted nut kernels.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culinary Uses
- Nut kernels are used in a variety of dishes globally, from salads and desserts to sauces and snacks.
- They can be consumed raw, roasted, or ground into nut butters, increasing their versatility in cooking.
Nutrition
- Nut kernels are rich in healthy fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them an excellent component of a balanced diet.
- Regular consumption of nut kernels has been associated with improved heart health and weight management.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, specific nut kernels, like almonds and walnuts, symbolize prosperity and good luck.
- Certain festivals around the world feature nut kernels, celebrating their harvest and importance.
Botanical Facts
- Nut kernels are technically seeds that develop from the ovary of a flower after fertilization.
- Not all seeds are classified as true nuts; for example, peanuts are legumes, while cashews are the seeds of a cashew apple.
Origin of 'nut kernel'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'kernel' comes from the Old English 'cyrnel', which means a seed or grain.
- In some languages, the term for 'kernel' refers specifically to the part of fruits and seeds that can be eaten.
The word 'nut' originates from the Old English word 'hnutu', which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'hnudō'. The term 'kernel' comes from the Middle English word 'kernell', which can be traced back to the Old French word 'kernal', meaning 'core or essence'. Nut kernels have been an essential part of human diets for centuries, providing a rich source of nutrients and energy.