nutcracker

noun

nut·​crack·​er ˈnət-ˌkra-kər How to pronounce nutcracker (audio)
: an implement for cracking nuts

Examples of nutcracker 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.
There will be tons of squirrely activities throughout the nature center to entertain and educate anyone who wants to learn more about The Natural State's native nutcrackers. Randy Zellers Arkansas Game, Arkansas Online, 19 Aug. 2025 To open peach pits, use a nutcracker, vice, or screw clamp to apply gentle pressure along the seams. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 28 June 2025 Also known as nutcracker esophagus or distal or diffuse esophageal spasm (DES), esophageal spasm is a rare disorder affecting about 1 in 100,000 people. Mark Gurarie, Health, 20 Dec. 2024 Place cards were pink and green nutcracker sugar cookies frosted with each guest's name. Ashlyn Robinette, People.com, 16 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for nutcracker

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nutcracker was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Nutcracker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nutcracker. Accessed 12 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

nutcracker

noun
nut·​crack·​er ˈnət-ˌkrak-ər How to pronounce nutcracker (audio)
: a device for cracking the shells of nuts

More from Merriam-Webster on nutcracker

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