Peanuts Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฅ
peanuts
[หpiห.nสts ]
Definition
food item
Peanuts are legumes that grow underground, commonly consumed as snacks or used to produce peanut butter. They are known for their crunchy texture and rich, nutty flavor. Nutritionally, peanuts are high in protein, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals, making them a popular choice for a healthy diet.
Synonyms
goober, groundnuts, pistachio.
Examples of usage
- I love snacking on roasted peanuts.
- She spread peanut butter on her toast.
- Peanuts are a common ingredient in many Asian dishes.
- He always brings peanuts to the game.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culinary Uses
- Peanuts can be turned into peanut butter, a popular spread for sandwiches, and also used in candies like peanut brittle.
- They are essential ingredients in many global cuisines, such as Asian dishes like Pad Thai and African stews.
- During festivals and celebrations in parts of Africa and Asia, peanuts are roasted or boiled and served as snacks, symbolizing good luck.
Agriculture
- Peanuts help enrich the soil by adding nitrogen, which benefits other crops planted afterwards.
- They are cultivated in over 100 countries, with the highest production in China, India, and the United States.
- Harvesting peanuts involves digging them out of the ground, which is a unique process compared to other types of nuts.
Health Benefits
- Rich in protein and healthy fats, peanuts are a good source of energy and can help maintain muscle strength.
- They contain antioxidants and vitamins that may contribute to heart health and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
- Eating peanuts in moderation is linked to lower rates of heart disease and other chronic conditions.
Pop Culture
- Peanuts are famously associated with the comic strip and characters created by Charles Schulz, like Charlie Brown and Snoopy.
- In popular snacks, peanuts often appear in candy bars, granola bars, and trail mixes, making them a favorite among many.
- They are also portrayed in sports, as baseball fans often enjoy roasted peanuts during games.
Origin of 'peanuts'
Main points about word origin
- The name 'peanut' comes from the combination of 'pea', because of its pod-like growth, and 'nut', referring to the way we consume it.
- The term has roots in the late 19th century when โpeanutโ was commonly used in the United States as a colloquial term.
- In some languages, such as Spanish, it is called 'manรญ', which is derived from a word in African languages, highlighting its diverse cultural importance.
The word 'peanut' derives from the earlier term 'pindar', which is derived from a Native American word. The English word is likely a combination of 'pea' and 'nut', reflecting the plant's characteristics as it resembles both peas and nuts in terms of its botanical classification. Peanuts belong to the Fabaceae family and are native to South America, later becoming popular in Africa and North America after their introduction by European colonists. The cultivation of peanuts expanded significantly during the 19th century, especially when peanut butter was first patented. Today, peanuts are widely grown and consumed around the world, appreciated for their versatility in both food and culinary applications.