kernel

[kur-nl] / ˈkɜr nl /

NOUN

seed, essence

Synonyms

STRONGEST

fruit grain meat morsel nut

STRONG

atom bit center core crux germ gist heart hub keynote marrow matter nub nubbin part piece pith root substance upshot

Antonyms

STRONG

exterior exteriority outside periphery surface whole

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

There’s still a kernel of disbelief that this is his job.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 6, 2026

Implicit in the articles is the sense that there may be a kernel of something good in a society that enables individuals to rise above oppression.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 22, 2026

There is no kernel of truth here: The claims of wrongdoing are fabricated from top to bottom.

From Slate • Jan. 12, 2026

Many of his claims have a kernel of truth to them.

From Salon • Jan. 9, 2026

Neither he nor his mother realizes it, but this kernel of an idea will take root.

From "Enrique's Journey" by Sonia Nazario

Vocabulary lists containing kernel

Words from Shakespearean Insults

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Drama

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"When Cultures Meet"

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