peanut
UK: ˈpiːnʌt | US: ˈpiːnʌt
n. 1. The edible seed of a leguminous plant, typically encased in a pod and consumed as food.
n. 2. (Informal) A trivial or insignificant amount or thing.
The word "peanut" is a compound of "pea" (from Old English pise, referring to the legume) and "nut" (from Old English hnutu, meaning a hard-shelled seed). Despite its name, the peanut is botanically a legume, not a true nut. The term emerged in the early 19th century, reflecting its resemblance to peas in growth (growing underground like a nut). This hybrid naming captures its dual identity in both culinary and botanical contexts.
She sprinkled crushed peanuts over the salad for extra crunch.
Peanut butter is a popular spread made from ground peanuts.
The vendor sold roasted peanuts at the baseball game.
He dismissed the criticism as a peanut issue not worth discussing.
Allergic reactions to peanuts can be severe and life-threatening.