peanut

Definition

A peanut is a small edible seed that grows in a shell underground and is often eaten roasted, salted, or made into peanut butter. It can also refer to the plant that produces these seeds.

Usage & Nuances

In everyday English, 'peanut' usually means the food, not the plant. Common combinations are 'peanut butter', 'peanut allergy', 'roasted peanuts', and 'peanut oil'. In informal English, 'peanuts' can also mean a very small amount of money: 'They paid me peanuts.'

Example Sentences