Nutcracker: meaning, definitions and examples
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nutcracker
[ ˈnʌtˌkrækər ]
tool, food
A nutcracker is a device used to break open the hard shells of nuts to access the edible part inside. Typically made of metal, wood, or plastic, it operates by applying pressure to the nut, which in turn fractures the shell. Nutcrackers come in various designs, some resembling pliers, while others are more decorative and sometimes crafted into elaborate shapes. They are commonly found in kitchens and are essential during holiday seasons where nuts are a popular snack.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I used the nutcracker to open the walnuts.
- She displayed her beautifully crafted nutcracker during the party.
- He struggled to break the tough shell with a simple nutcracker.
ballet, performance
The Nutcracker is also a famous ballet composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, first performed in 1892. The story revolves around a young girl named Clara who receives a nutcracker as a gift on Christmas Eve, leading her to a magical world. The ballet is particularly popular during the holiday season, often performed by ballet companies around the world. Its music and choreography have become synonymous with festive celebrations and traditions.
Synonyms
Christmas ballet, Tchaikovsky ballet
Examples of usage
- We attended a performance of The Nutcracker last night.
- The music from The Nutcracker fills the air during Christmas.
- She danced in The Nutcracker every holiday season.
Translations
Translations of the word "nutcracker" in other languages:
🇵🇹 quebra-nozes
🇮🇳 नटक्रैकर
🇩🇪 Nussknacker
🇮🇩 pembuka kacang
🇺🇦 горіхокол
🇵🇱 łamańce orzechowe
🇯🇵 ナッツクラッカー
🇫🇷 casse-noix
🇪🇸 cascanueces
🇹🇷 ceviz kırıcı
🇰🇷 호두까기
🇸🇦 مكسر الجوز
🇨🇿 ořechový sekáč
🇸🇰 lúpač orechov
🇨🇳 坚果夹
🇸🇮 orahovnik
🇮🇸 hnetu
🇰🇿 жаңғақ жарғыш
🇬🇪 ხილის ნატეხი
🇦🇿 qoz-fındıq qırıcı
🇲🇽 rompe nueces
Etymology
The word 'nutcracker' originates from the combination of 'nut,' which comes from the Old English 'cyning' meaning 'to break,' and 'cracker,' derived from the Middle English 'crak,' which means 'to break or shatter.' Historically, nutcrackers have been utilized since ancient times, with early examples crafted in wood or stone as tools to crack open nuts. The design of nutcrackers has evolved significantly over the centuries, with some being ornately designed for decorative purposes as well. The ballet 'The Nutcracker,' which premiered in the late 19th century, popularized the term further in cultural contexts, intertwining the idea of the nutcracker as both a household tool and a symbol of festive tradition.