Kernel

The essential part of a seed; all that is within the seed walls; the edible substance contained in the shell of a nut; hence, anything included in a shell, husk, or integument; as, the kernel of a nut. See Illust. of Endocarp.

A single seed or grain; as, a kernel of corn.

A small mass around which other matter is concreted; a nucleus; a concretion or hard lump in the flesh.

The central, substantial or essential part of anything; the gist; the core; as, the kernel of an argument.

To harden or ripen into kernels; to produce kernels.

the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience; "the gist of the prosecutor's argument"; "the heart and soul of the Republican Party"; "the nub of the story"

a single whole grain of a cereal; "a kernel of corn"

the inner and usually edible part of a seed or grain or nut or fruit stone; "black walnut kernels are difficult to get out of the shell"