nutshell

noun

nut·​shell ˈnət-ˌshel 

1

: the hard external covering in which the kernel of a nut is enclosed

2

: something of small size, amount, or scope

see also:

in a nutshell

Examples of nutshell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Romeo and Juliet set against the backdrop of DC politics — that in a nutshell is one of the main plotlines in Young Americans, a drama pilot ordered by Hulu, with The Handmaid’s Tale and The Testaments creator Bruce Miller executive producing. — Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 26 June 2026

In a nutshell, the environment did not feel cheap. — Sara Lacey, The Drive, 25 June 2026

Sun protection and an instant outfit upgrade — that's this straw bucket hat’s job in a nutshell. — Jill Layton, PEOPLE, 23 June 2026

In a nutshell, thermodynamic computing seeks to harness thermal noise—the ubiquitous microscopic jiggling of electrons caused by heat—to execute useful computation. — Rob Toews, Forbes.com, 22 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing nutshell

• in a nutshell

Rhymes for nutshell

• barbell
• bedwell
• befell
• bluebell
• bombshell
• bridewell
• capelle
• cartel
• carvel
• clamshell
• cogswell
• compel

Kids Definition

nutshell

noun

nut·​shell ˈnət-ˌshel 

: the shell of a nut