Meaning & Definition of word "Chestnut"
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Chestnut
/ˈʧɛst.nʌt/
noun:
- 1. A type of tree or shrub belonging to the genus Castanea, known for its edible nuts.
- Example: We roasted chestnuts over the open fire, filling the air with a delightful aroma.
- 2. The edible nut of the chestnut tree, typically round and glossy brown in color.
- Example: She enjoyed a warm slice of chestnut cake with her afternoon tea.
- 3. A dark brown color resembling the color of the chestnut nut.
- Example: His horse had a beautiful chestnut coat that shone in the sunlight.
- 4. A stale or overused joke or story.
- Example: My grandfather keeps telling that same chestnut about his childhood every holiday.
adjective:
- 1. Of a dark brown color similar to that of a chestnut.
- Example: She wore a chestnut-colored sweater that complemented her eyes.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old French 'châtaigne', from Latin 'castanea', from Greek 'kastanea'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
old chestnut:
A story or joke that has become stale through overuse.
Related Words
horse chestnut:
A different species (Aesculus hippocastanum) that produces non-edible seeds.
chestnut tree:
The tree that bears chestnut fruits.
Slang Meanings of chestnut
Meaning: An old joke
Example Sentence: That story is a real chestnut, I've heard it so many times.
Meaning: Something or someone that's common or cliched
Example Sentence: His style is a chestnut; it's nothing new or original.