pecan

noun

pe·​can pi-ˈkän  -ˈkan  ˈpē-ˌkan 

1

: a large hickory (Carya illinoinensis synonym C. oliviformis) that has roughish bark and hard but brittle wood and is widely grown in the warmer parts of the U.S. and in Mexico for its edible nut

2

: the wood of the pecan tree

The hardwood floor was made of pecan.

3

: the smooth oblong thin-shelled nut of the pecan tree

bought some pecans to make a pie

Examples of pecan in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Often likened to pecans, shagbark hickory (Carya ovata) produces deliciously rich, sweet, and buttery nuts. —Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 21 Jan. 2026

These tiny tarts mix cranberries and orange peel into a delightful pecan tassie recipe. —Ginger Crichton, Midwest Living, 20 Jan. 2026

The crushed pineapples, pecans, and bananas are the ingredients that make this extra moist and a true showstopper. —Krissy Tiglias, Southern Living, 19 Jan. 2026

Both offer unique health benefits, with pecans providing more heart-healthy fats, while peanuts offer slightly more protein and nutrients. —Lauren Panoff, Verywell Health, 18 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

American French pacane, from Illinois pakani

First Known Use

1761, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for pecan

• anton
• argon
• axon
• baronne
• baryon
• baton
• boron
• buisson
• bygone
• capon
• cardon
• chiffon

Kids Definition

pecan

noun

pe·​can pi-ˈkän  -ˈkan 

: an oblong edible nut that usually has a thin shell and is the fruit of a tall tree of the central and southern U.S.

also : this tree which is one of the hickories