betel nut

noun

1. the astringent kernel of the seed of the betel palm, chewed in many tropical regions in combination with slaked lime and the leaves of the betel plant.

betel nut

noun

1. the seed of the betel palm, chewed with betel leaves and lime by people in S and SE Asia as a digestive stimulant and narcotic

Word History and Origins

Origin of betel nut¹

First recorded in 1675–85

Example Sentences

Later, if they decide to separate, the couple must break a betel nut to break the union.

From The Daily Beast

As she chewed her betel-nut the Princess Putri Balan hit upon a plan.

From Project Gutenberg

Yes, I will say yes, if you will only leave me to finish my betel-nut undisturbed.

From Project Gutenberg

Have you finished your betel-nut at last, and are you ready to keep your promise?

From Project Gutenberg

The Deb Zimpun's eyes glistened and he showed his teeth, stained red with betel-nut chewing, in a gracious smile.

From Project Gutenberg

Two or three boys awoke and watched him while they prepared and chewed betel nut and lime wrapped in green leaves.

From Project Gutenberg