nutshell

noun

nut·​shell ˈnət-ˌshel How to pronounce nutshell (audio)
Synonyms of nutshellnext
1
: the hard external covering in which the kernel of a nut is enclosed
2
: something of small size, amount, or scope
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Examples of nutshell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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That’s the Angel Reese experience in a nutshell. Dan Zaksheske Outkick, FOXNews.com, 27 May 2026 In a nutshell, local inheritance rules cannot be ignored whether imposed by civil or religious laws. Virginia La Torre Jeker, Forbes.com, 26 May 2026 This is no easy task, as this market in a nutshell is violently reacting to headlines, but structurally positioning itself for a final resolution. Todd Gordon, CNBC, 26 May 2026 The bottom of the second was the Red Sox offense in a nutshell. Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 23 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for nutshell

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of nutshell was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Nutshell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nutshell. Accessed 29 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

nutshell

noun
nut·​shell ˈnət-ˌshel How to pronounce nutshell (audio)
: the shell of a nut

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