nutshell

noun

nut·​shell ˈnət-ˌshel 

1

: the hard external covering in which the kernel of a nut is enclosed

2

: something of small size, amount, or scope

Phrases

in a nutshell

: in a very brief statement

Examples of nutshell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In a nutshell, coach Rod Brind’Amour is pretty comfortable with his defense. —Cory Lavalette, New York Times, 12 Apr. 2025

In a nutshell, this Mango crossbody is trendy without being loud: a balance that will serve you well, especially when paired with a maxi skirt, white sneakers, and a transitional-weather cashmere sweater almost as soft as the item itself. —Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 10 Apr. 2025

In a nutshell, the growing complexity of global supply chains makes their management harder. —Julian Durand, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025

In a nutshell, this setup automatically delivers more power to whichever wheel has more weight over it in a turn. —Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 7 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for nutshell

• barbell
• bedwell
• befell
• bluebell
• bombshell
• bridewell
• capelle
• cartel
• carvel
• clamshell
• cogswell
• compel

Kids Definition

nutshell

noun

nut·​shell ˈnət-ˌshel 

: the shell of a nut