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.

---

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

---

Etymology

Origin of betel nut

First recorded in 1675–85

Example Sentences

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

The restrictions on public drinking and betel nut chewing could change behavior for the better, she said, but was also afraid of what might happen once the foreign dignitaries leave.

From Washington Times • Nov. 16, 2018

For Nuari, betel nut sales are her main source of income.

From BBC • Oct. 11, 2017

The fact that everyone else chews betel nut, or plays mah-jongg, does not mean that I will take up these practices.

From Have We No Rights? A frank discussion of the "rights" of missionaries by Williamson, Mabel