coconut

noun

co·​co·​nut ˈkō-kə-(ˌ)nət 

1

: the drupaceous fruit of the coconut palm whose outer fibrous husk yields coir and whose nut contains thick edible meat and, in the fresh fruit, a clear liquid (see coconut water)

2

: the edible meat of the coconut

Examples of coconut in a Sentence

The pastry is covered with shredded coconut.

Recent Examples on the Web

As long as there is no allergic or adverse reaction to the essential oils, which should always be diluted with carrier oils like coconut, jojoba or sweet almond oil, there is no harm in trying them. —Eva Crouse, Flow Space, 31 Jan. 2025

Flaked coconut and vanilla extract enhance the filling, creating a more delicate dessert. —Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 30 Jan. 2025

And in Hetty’s new recipe for sheet-pan coconut curry with squash and tofu, cubes of extra-firm tofu endure under intense heat in a shallow pool of coconut curry. —Tanya Sichynsky, New York Times, 23 Jan. 2025

Step 5 Remove from the heat and stir in the almond butter and coconut cream. —Joe Yonan, Saveur, 23 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1599, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing coconut

• coconut crab
• coconut milk
• coconut oil
• coconut palm
• coconut shy
• coconut water

Kids Definition

coconut

noun

co·​co·​nut ˈkō-kə-(ˌ)nət 

: the large egg-shaped husk-covered fruit of the coconut palm

Medical Definition

coconut

noun

co·​co·​nut ˈkō-kə-(ˌ)nət 

1

: the fruit of the coconut palm having an outer fibrous husk with a nut containing thick edible meat and coconut milk

2

: the edible meat of the coconut