kernel

[kur-nl] / ˈkɜr nl /

NOUN

seed, essence

Synonyms

STRONGEST

fruit grain meat morsel nut

STRONG

atom bit center core crux germ gist heart hub keynote marrow matter nub nubbin part piece pith root substance upshot

Antonyms

STRONG

exterior exteriority outside periphery surface whole

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Is there any kernel of truth to anything she’s saying?

From Slate • Feb. 27, 2026

But they need to find the kernel of truth in the complaints, without explaining them away.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 11, 2026

There’s still a kernel of disbelief that this is his job.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 6, 2026

Call it a kernel of hope to hold onto as we turn the page.

From Salon • Dec. 17, 2025

Okay, maybe my kernel can sometimes be nice.

From "Saints and Misfits" by S.K. Ali