pecan

noun

pe·​can pi-ˈkän  -ˈkan  ˈpē-ˌkan 

1

: a large hickory (Carya illinoinensis synonym C. oliviformis) that has roughish bark and hard but brittle wood and is widely grown in the warmer parts of the U.S. and in Mexico for its edible nut

2

: the wood of the pecan tree

The hardwood floor was made of pecan.

3

: the smooth oblong thin-shelled nut of the pecan tree

bought some pecans to make a pie

Examples of pecan in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Spoon the pecan mixture evenly over sweet potatoes. —Robin Miller, The Arizona Republic, 1 Nov. 2024

Pecans Rich in potassium and magnesium, pecans help stimulate the functioning of the nervous system as these two chemical elements are involved in exchanges between nerve cells and help to advance nerve impulses to the brain. —Jeanne Ballion, Vogue, 31 Oct. 2024

Fifth course: Giant cream puff, sugared blackberries, caramel and candied pecans. —Amanda Hancock, The Courier-Journal, 28 Oct. 2024

These pralines have that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture thanks to a combination of roasted pecans, caramelized sugar, and creamy butter. —Symiah Dorsey, Southern Living, 25 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

American French pacane, from Illinois pakani

First Known Use

1761, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

pecan

noun

pe·​can pi-ˈkän  -ˈkan 

: an oblong edible nut that usually has a thin shell and is the fruit of a tall tree of the central and southern U.S.

also : this tree which is one of the hickories