walnut

UK: ˈwɔːlnʌt | US: ˈwɔːlnʌt

Definition

  1. n. 1. The edible seed of the walnut tree, enclosed in a hard shell.

  2. n. 2. The tree itself, known for its hardwood and aromatic nuts.

Structure
wal <foreign>nut <seed>wal <foreign>nut <seed>
Etymology

The word "walnut" literally means "foreign nut," reflecting its introduction to Germanic regions from Southern Europe (likely via Roman trade). The "wal-" prefix distinguished it from native hazelnuts. Over time, "walnut" became the standard term for this tree and its seeds.

Examples

  1. She cracked open a walnut and shared the halves.

  2. The walnut tree in our garden produces abundant fruit.

  3. Walnut wood is prized for furniture making.

  4. He sprinkled chopped walnuts over the salad.

  5. The recipe calls for a cup of crushed walnuts.