kernel

Meanings

• 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"
• a single whole grain of a cereal
  • "a kernel of corn"
• the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience

Synonyms

center, centre, core, essence, gist, heart, heart and soul, inwardness, marrow, meat, nitty-gritty, nub, pith, substance, sum