coconut

noun

co·​co·​nut ˈkō-kə-(ˌ)nət 

1

: the drupaceous fruit of the coconut palm whose outer fibrous husk yields coir and whose nut contains thick edible meat and, in the fresh fruit, a clear liquid (see coconut water)

2

: the edible meat of the coconut

Examples of coconut in a Sentence

The pastry is covered with shredded coconut.

Recent Examples on the Web

R+Co Bleu’s Essential formulas cleanse thoroughly while delivering lightweight nourishment, thanks to a blend of coconut and olive oils. —Sarah Hoffmann, Allure, 7 Feb. 2026

While the original painkiller cocktail was created on the island of Jost Van Dyke in the neighboring British Virgin Islands, this must-try beverage features classic tropical flavors like coconut, orange, and pineapple. —Carley Rojas Avila, Travel + Leisure, 7 Feb. 2026

Different from the liquid found inside a coconut (that’s electrolyte-rich coconut water), coconut milk comes from pressing the meat. —Margaux Anbouba, Vogue, 6 Feb. 2026

Staying in feels special with mushrooms au poivre, coconut-caramel fish, pork tenderloin with agrodolce cherries, or any of these Valentine’s dinner options. —Joe Sevier, Bon Appetit Magazine, 6 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1599, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing coconut

• coconut crab
• coconut milk
• coconut oil
• coconut palm
• coconut shy
• coconut water

Rhymes for coconut

• butternut
• cocoanut
• hazelnut
• undercut
• abut
• catgut
• chesnut
• chestnut
• donut
• doughnut
• groundnut
• haircut

Kids Definition

coconut

noun

co·​co·​nut ˈkō-kə-(ˌ)nət 

: the large egg-shaped husk-covered fruit of the coconut palm

Medical Definition

coconut

noun

co·​co·​nut ˈkō-kə-(ˌ)nət 

1

: the fruit of the coconut palm having an outer fibrous husk with a nut containing thick edible meat and coconut milk

2

: the edible meat of the coconut