almond
noun (countable)
UK/ˈɑːmənd/US/ˈɑːmənd/
the edible seed of the almond tree, used as food and to produce almond oil; also refers to the tree itself
Example Sentences
She added a handful of almonds to her salad for extra crunch and nutrition.
The almond tree in their backyard blooms beautifully every spring, producing fragrant white flowers.
He prefers to use almond oil in his cooking because of its rich, nutty flavor.
Almonds are a popular snack due to their high protein and healthy fat content.
During the harvest season, farmers collect almonds from the trees and dry them for storage.
Her favorite dessert is almond cake, which combines the sweetness of sugar with the subtle taste of almonds.
They planted several almond trees in their orchard, anticipating a bountiful harvest in the coming years.
The beauty of her almond-shaped eyes was often remarked upon by those who met her.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
adjective
UK/ˈɑːmənd/US/ˈɑːmənd/
resembling the shape or color of an almond; almond-shaped
Example Sentences
She wore an almond-shaped pair of sunglasses that complemented her features perfectly.
The artist painted the vase with an almond-like curve, giving it an elegant and graceful appearance.
His eyes were almond-shaped, giving him a distinctive and attractive look.
The plant has almond-shaped leaves that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
They designed the window with almond-shaped panes to add a unique architectural element to the building.
The new smartphone features an almond-shaped screen, making it both stylish and easy to hold.
Her face was framed by almond-shaped eyebrows, enhancing her expressive eyes.
The sculpture showcased an almond-shaped abstract form, blending modern design with organic inspiration.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
Antonyms
How to Use
A seed of the almond tree with a distinctive flavor and diverse culinary uses.Use “almond” when referring to the oval-shaped, nut-like seed produced by the almond tree (Prunus dulcis). Although commonly called a nut, almonds are technically the seeds of a fruit. They’re encased in a hard shell and harvested for both sweet and savory dishes. In culinary contexts, you might discuss their flavor—mildly sweet and nutty—or their versatility, as they can be eaten raw, roasted, sliced, or ground into flour. Almond milk and almond butter are popular dairy alternatives, reflecting growing demand for plant-based products. When mentioning health, highlight their healthy fats, protein, and vitamins, making them a nutritious snack option. “Almond” can also appear in discussions of cosmetics, where almond oil is valued for its moisturizing properties. Whether describing an almond’s crunchy texture in a dessert or its subtle essence in a traditional sauce, the word underscores a foundational ingredient prized across cuisines for both flavor and nourishment.
Alternatives
If you need related terms, consider “nut” (though almonds are seeds, they’re often grouped with nuts in everyday usage), “kernel” (referencing the edible part inside the shell), or “drupes” (the fruit family almonds technically belong to). Almond products, like “almond flour,” “almond milk,” and “almond oil,” specify how almonds are processed for different culinary or cosmetic uses. Phrases like “marzipan” and “praline” may come up when discussing sweets that heavily feature almonds. Meanwhile, “amaretto” is an almond-flavored liqueur, though sometimes made with apricot kernels. Using correct terminology clarifies whether you’re addressing the basic seed, a derivative product, or a flavor profile. In casual conversation, “nut” typically suffices, but in more precise or culinary contexts, specifying “almond kernels,” “almond butter,” or “almond extract” helps distinguish the exact form or product you’re referring to.
Writing
When writing about almonds, include context regarding their origin, flavor, and uses. You might note their cultivation in Mediterranean climates like California’s Central Valley or parts of Spain, discussing how soil and weather conditions affect taste and yield. Describing flavor notes—mild sweetness, faint bitterness in raw varieties—can enrich a food review or recipe blog. Emphasize texture, too: raw almonds provide a satisfying crunch, while blanched or sliced almonds add a delicate topping for pastries or salads. If focusing on nutrition, cite protein levels, healthy monounsaturated fats, or vitamin E content. In environmental discussions, mention the water-intensive nature of almond farming, balancing consumer demand with ecological impact. For deeper cultural angles, explore how almonds appear in global culinary traditions—Italian biscotti, Indian sweets, Middle Eastern pastries—or the symbolism they hold (e.g., often associated with good fortune). By weaving practical details—like roasting tips or pairing suggestions—your writing can help readers appreciate almonds’ versatility and significance, whether your goal is education, storytelling, or a nuanced recipe guide.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, “almond” usually comes up when chatting about snacks, baking, or dietary preferences. You might say, “I love snacking on roasted almonds between meals,” or “I added sliced almonds to my cereal.” Friends might share favorite recipes or quick tips, like “almond milk is great in smoothies” or “try almond butter on toast.” Discussions of health and diets sometimes reference almonds for their nutritional value—high in protein and healthy fats. If you’re talking about allergies, you may mention that someone has a nut allergy and therefore avoids almonds. Casually, you might also mention flavor combos—how almonds pair well with chocolate, honey, or dried fruits. Overall, “almond” in everyday talk is fairly straightforward: it’s a crunchy, tasty, and versatile snack or ingredient that people enjoy for its mild flavor and health benefits. Whether you’re exploring new plant-based milks or praising the crunch almonds add to a salad, it’s an easy go-to topic among food enthusiasts or health-conscious friends alike.
Etymology
The word “almond” traces back to the Late Latin “amandula,” which evolved from the Greek “amygdalē.” Old French rendered it as “almande” or “alemande,” eventually shifting into Middle English forms. The silent ‘l’ in today’s spelling likely emerged under the influence of other words with similar patterns (like “calm”). Historically, almonds were native to regions around the Mediterranean and southwest Asia. Their popularity grew through trade, leading to widespread cultivation and culinary integration worldwide. Many cultures embraced almonds for both practical and symbolic reasons—frequently associated with health, fertility, and prosperity. Over centuries, the word stayed close to its original roots (pun intended), reflecting its enduring significance as a nutrient-dense, flavorful seed used in diverse cuisines and traditions.