Synonyms of kernel

kernel

noun

ˈkər-nᵊl 

as in root

the central part or aspect of something under consideration

the kernel of your argument seems to be the inevitability of human migration into space

Synonyms & Similar Words

• root
• core
• essence
• heart
• meat
• point
• nucleus
• sum
• pith
• bottom line
• crux
• gist
• pivot
• sum and substance
• nub
• net
• keynote
• centerpiece
• meat and potatoes
• theme
• subject
• nubbin
• tenor
• bull's-eye
• the long and short
• content
• substance
• direction
• body
• course
• drift
• thesis
• hypothesis
• proposition
• purport

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of kernel

Mi Rancho has been making tortillas since 1939 and continues to use whole-kernel California corn, a commitment that shows in the tortillas’ fresh taste and consistently tender texture. — Sam Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 July 2026

The vulnerability resides in KVM, which is, in essence, a virtual machine app included in the kernel of many Linux distributions. — Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 8 July 2026

Two companies can use the exact same RTOS kernel and still ship completely different products. — Rajesh Subramaniam, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026

Hold the corn, tip down, in the bowl, and using a sharp knife, cut straight down between the kernels and the cob, cutting as close to the cob as possible and rotating the ear about a quarter turn after each cut. — Kate Bradshaw, Mercury News, 7 July 2026