betel nut

American  

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.

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betel nut British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of betel nut

First recorded in 1675–85

Example Sentences

In one episode, a Mizoram betel nut plantation was set on fire.

From New York Times • Jul. 27, 2021

The practice involves placing a small gift — a bit of money or betel nut — in a basket in exchange for a favor.

From Fox News • Dec. 13, 2018

The practice involves placing a small gift - a bit of money or betel nut - in a basket in exchange for a favor.

From Washington Times • Dec. 13, 2018

Markets often have an area dedicated solely to betel nut vendors.

From BBC • Oct. 11, 2017

The chief after holding a short consultation, returned to his house and brought out five pieces of betel nut, which he gave to the sailors as a token of friendship.

From Thrilling Narratives of Mutiny, Murder and Piracy A weird series of tales of shipwreck and disaster, from the earliest part of the century to the present time, with accounts of providential escapes and heart-rending fatalities. by Anonymous