Meaning & Definition of word "Chestnut"

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.