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Pecan Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pecan

[pɪˈkæn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

food type

A pecan is a type of hickory tree native to North America, particularly in the southern United States and Mexico. The tree produces edible nuts that have a rich, buttery flavor and are commonly used in desserts and as snacks. Pecans are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. They are often featured in pies, candies, and as toppings for salads and other dishes.

Synonyms

hickory nut, nut.

Examples of usage

  • I made a delicious pecan pie for dessert.
  • She enjoys snacking on roasted pecans.
  • Pecans are great for adding crunch to salads.
  • The bakery sells assorted nut pastries, including pecan tarts.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • Pecans are famously used in desserts like pecan pie, a staple of American Southern cuisine, especially during holidays.
  • Besides sweet dishes, pecans can be toasted or spiced for savory snacks, showcasing their versatility in cooking.

Health Benefits

  • Rich in antioxidants, pecans help combat oxidative stress in the body, promoting better overall health.
  • They contain healthy fats that can support heart health when eaten in moderation.
  • Pecans are an excellent source of magnesium, essential for many bodily functions including muscle and nerve function.

Cultural Significance

  • The pecan tree is the state tree of Texas, highlighting its significance in American culture and economy.
  • In Native American traditions, the nut has been used for culinary and medicinal purposes, showing its historical value.

Agriculture

  • Pecan trees are native to North America and flourish in warm climates, particularly in southern states.
  • The cultivation of pecans has expanded significantly, making the United States one of the top producers worldwide.

Origin of 'pecan'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pecan' comes from the Algonquin word 'pakan,' which referred to all nuts that require a stone to crack.
  • Initially documented in the English language in the 1700s, the term marks the nut's importance in Native American culture.

The word 'pecan' comes from the Algonquin word 'pakani', which refers to a nut that requires a stone to crack. The term has been used since the early 18th century, particularly in reference to the edible nuts of the Carya illinoinensis tree, which were cultivated by Native Americans. These nuts were an important part of their diet and economy. As European settlers came into contact with the indigenous peoples, they adopted the use of pecans and began to cultivate them for their own use. By the 19th century, pecans had become widely appreciated for their flavor and versatility in cooking, leading to increased farming and commercial production. Today, the pecan is celebrated as one of the quintessential ingredients in Southern cuisine, particularly in dishes such as pecan pie, and continues to be a staple in various culinary traditions.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,299, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.