acorn
UK: ˈeɪ.kɔːn | US: ˈeɪ.kɔːrn
n. the fruit of the oak tree, a smooth oval nut in a rough cup-shaped base
The word "acorn" originates from Old English æcern, meaning "fruit of the oak." It was later influenced by folk etymology, associating it with "corn" (grain) due to its seed-like nature. The initial "a-" was mistakenly interpreted as the indefinite article, though it originally derived from Proto-Germanic akraną (fruit of a tree). Over time, the spelling shifted to reflect this perceived connection to "corn," even though the two words are unrelated.
Squirrels gathered acorns to store for the winter.
The forest floor was littered with fallen acorns.
He cracked open an acorn to examine the seed inside.
Acorns are a vital food source for many woodland creatures.
The oak tree produced a bumper crop of acorns this year.