nutshell

noun

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

see also in a nutshell

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, bonuses happen once but wages are forever. Amy Lindgren, Twin Cities, 31 Jan. 2026 That play was his value in a nutshell. Cedric Golden, Austin American Statesman, 26 Jan. 2026 Yeah, that was it in a nutshell. Damon Wise, Deadline, 14 Jan. 2026 In a nutshell, string theory is a sprawling realm of theoretical physics that assumes that tiny vibrating strings are the fundamental basis of reality. Lee Billings, Scientific American, 13 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for nutshell

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of nutshell was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Nutshell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nutshell. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

nutshell

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

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