KERNEL

n. v.

5 definitions — Webster’s Dictionary (1828)


1.
n.

The essential part of a seed; all that is within the seed walls; the edible substance contained in the shell of a nut; hence, anything included in a shell, husk, or integument; as, the kernel of a nut. See Illust. of Endocarp. ' A were as good crack a fusty nut with no kernel Shak.

2.
n.

A single seed or grain; as, a kernel of corn.

3.
n.

A small mass around which other matter is concreted; a nucleus; a concretion or hard lump in the flesh.

4.
n.

The central, substantial or essential part of anything; the gist; the core; as, the kernel of an argument.

5.
v.

To harden or ripen into kernels; to produce kernels.