Kernel - Definition

n 1: the inner and usually edible part of a seed or grain or nut
or fruit stone; "black walnut kernels are difficult to get
out of the shell" [syn: kernel, meat]
2: a single whole grain of a cereal; "a kernel of corn"
3: the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some
idea or experience; "the gist of the prosecutor's argument";
"the heart and soul of the Republican Party"; "the nub of the
story" [syn: kernel, substance, core, center,
centre, essence, gist, heart, heart and soul,
inwardness, marrow, meat, nub, pith, sum, nitty-
gritty]