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

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

betel nut

Together, the chemical evidence and distinctive tooth damage suggest that hunter-gatherers in Sulawesi practiced habitual betel nut sucking over long periods, leaving striking physical changes in their teeth.

From Science Daily ● Sep. 10, 2026

He could barely stand, but he followed the officer to a clearing, where three higher-ranking officials sat under the shade of betel nut trees.

From New York Times ● Aug. 8, 2019

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

In an urgent crackdown, a ban on the sale and consumption of betel nut across Port Moresby has been in force for three-and-a-half years.

From BBC ● Oct. 11, 2017

In this first precinct are the vendors of betel nut, cigars and tobacco, delicacies and refreshments.

From Friars and Filipinos An Abridged Translation of Dr. Jose Rizal's Tagalog Novel, 'Noli Me Tangere.' by José Rizal

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