betel nut

noun

: the astringent seed of the betel palm

Examples of betel nut in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Both skeletons had deep rounded grooves in their teeth, apparently caused by constantly sucking on whole betel nuts. — ArsTechnica, 2 Oct. 2026 Researchers have found evidence that ancient humans chewed on betel nuts, a stimulant still widely used today. — Devika Rao, TheWeek, 21 Sep. 2026 Human nature Outside researchers say the paper makes a compelling case for ancient betel nut use. — Pien Huang, NPR, 19 Sep. 2026 However, the ancient humans living on Sulawesi didn’t necessarily ingest betel nuts for recreational use. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 10 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for betel nut

Word History

Etymology

from its being chewed with betel leaves

First Known Use

1673, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of betel nut was in 1673

Rhymes for betel nut

See All Rhymes for betel nut

Browse Nearby Words

Betelgeuse
betel nut
betel palm
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Betel nut.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/betel%20nut. Accessed 8 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

betel nut

noun
: the seed of an Asian palm

Medical Definition

betel nut

noun
: the astringent seed of the betel palm that is a source of arecoline

More from Merriam-Webster on betel nut

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about betel nut

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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