kernel
noun
[ ˈkəːn(ə)l ]
• a softer, usually edible part of a nut, seed, or fruit stone contained within its shell.
• "the kernel of a walnut"
• the central or most important part of something.
• "this is the kernel of the argument"
Similar:
essence,
core,
heart,
essential part,
essentials,
quintessence,
fundamentals,
basics,
nub,
gist,
substance,
burden,
heart of the matter,
marrow,
meat,
pith,
crux,
nitty-gritty,
nuts and bolts,
brass tacks,
nucleus,
centre,
germ,
grain,
nugget,
Origin:
Old English cyrnel, diminutive of corn1.
