wild chestnut

noun

1
a
: a proteaceous shrub (Brabejum stellatifolia) of southern Africa
b
: the nut of this plant containing a kernel that is edible when roasted
2
: a southern African tree (Calodendron capense) of the family Rutaceae with panicles of handsome white flowers for which it is sometimes cultivated
also : its edible black seed
3
: a Philippine tree (Castanopsis philippinensis) related to the true chestnut
also : the seed of this tree

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near wild chestnut

Cite this Entry

“Wild chestnut.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wild%20chestnut. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!