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

Whole wheat bread is generally the healthier choice because it’s made from the entire wheat kernel, giving you more fiber and nutrients. — Randi Gollin, Martha Stewart, 26 July 2026

What Rick and Morty had going for it, at its best, was conceptual inspiration, the ability to take a kernel of an idea and stretch it to the creative limit and beyond. — Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 24 July 2026

While corn on the cob is a no, kernels from the cob are a yes. — Cody Godwin, USA Today, 24 July 2026

The spiderweb sprawl of a three-team trade often starts from a kernel of interest, like the Athletics kicking the tires on Ruiz. — Stephen J. Nesbitt, New York Times, 23 July 2026