nutshell

noun

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

Examples of nutshell 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.
In a nutshell, Total Energy Supply reflects the actual amount of energy available to meet a country’s demand. Robert Rapier, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025 Tuesday night was the Red Sox’s first half in a nutshell. Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 25 June 2025 In a nutshell, this includes flying within a maximum altitude of 400 ft / 120 m, maintaining a visual line of sight. James Abbott, Space.com, 22 June 2025 That’s been Cody Ceci’s career in a nutshell: probably better than given credit for by the numbers, but definitely way worse than how he was utilized. Dom Luszczyszyn, New York Times, 18 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for nutshell

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of nutshell was in the 13th century

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Cite this Entry

“Nutshell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nutshell. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

nutshell

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

More from Merriam-Webster on nutshell

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