pecan

/pɪˈkæn/

Definitions

1. noun

a type of native North American tree (Carya illinoensis) that has a thick trunk, broad branches, and edible nuts.

“The pecan tree in our backyard produces delicious nuts every fall.”

2. noun

the edible nut of the pecan tree, typically brown with a smooth, thin shell.

“Pecans are a popular ingredient in many baked goods and desserts.”

3. verb

to shell or separate the nuts from the shell, especially as an activity in a game.

“We had to pecan the nuts to get to the delicious filling.”

4. verb

to remove the shell of (a nut) with the hands, especially as an activity in a game.

“The kids loved pecaning the nuts at the family reunion.”

Synonyms

  • hickory nut
  • walnut

Antonyms

  • acorn