kernel
nounUK /ˈkɜːnəl/
US /ˈkɝːnəl/
The small seed inside a nut or fruit.
She cracked open the walnut and ate the kernel inside.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The most important part of something, like the main idea.
The kernel of his speech was that we should all be kind.
3. The central part of a computer's operating system.
The kernel manages memory and keeps the computer running smoothly.
4. A single grain of corn or wheat.
A few kernels of popcorn jumped out of the pan.