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Synonyms & Similar Words
Meaning of Kernel
The primary meaning of the word "kernel" refers to the central or innermost part of something, such as a seed, nut, or fruit.
Definitions
- The central or innermost part of a seed, nut, or fruit, especially the edible part of a nut or the central part of a seed that contains the embryo.
- The central or most important part of a thing, such as an idea, problem, or system.
- In computing, the kernel is the central part of an operating system, responsible for managing the system's hardware resources and providing services to applications.
Etymology of Kernel
The word "kernel" comes from the Old English word "cyrnell", which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "kurniz", also the source of the Modern English word "corn".
The word has been used in English since the 9th century to refer to the central part of a seed or nut, and its meaning has been extended to include the central or most important part of a thing, such as an idea or system.
Example Uses
- The kernel of the seed contains the embryo and nutrients for the developing plant.
- The kernel of the idea is that we need to reduce costs and increase efficiency.
- The computer's kernel crashed, causing the system to shut down.