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

How about the addition of Granny Smith apples and coconut. —Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 1 Mar. 2026

Pomelo segments are just one component in this refreshing crunchy vegetable salad that is bursting with the flavor and texture contrasts of peanuts, coconut and loads of fresh herbs. —Carolynn Carreño, Los Angeles Times, 1 Mar. 2026

The pure coconut flavor got a subtle floral lift from the saffron. —Beth Kracklauer, Outside, 27 Feb. 2026

This jungle home sits high on a hill and overlooks the Indian Ocean and coconut trees. —Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 26 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