Vocabulary Spotlight

Acorns

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: The nut of an oak tree, usually contained in a hard shell and often used as food for wildlife.

“The squirrels gathered acorns from the ground to store for winter.”

Pronunciation

[AY-kawrnz]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Nut
Seed
Fruit
Kernel
Capsule

Antonyms

Leaf
Flower
Bud
Blossom

Related Words

Oak
Capsule
Sapling

Word Origin

“Acorn” originates from the Old English “æcern,” meaning “fruit or berry.”

Word Family

Noun: Acorn – The nut of an oak tree.

Noun: Oak – The type of tree that produces acorns.

Mnemonics

Think “A Corn-like Nut” – Acorns are small, hard, and similar to other nuts in size and shape.

Industry-specific Usage

Ecology

Acorns are a crucial food source for many animals, like squirrels and deer, especially in colder seasons.

Gardening

Gardeners and arborists may collect acorns to plant new oak trees and cultivate forests.

Symbolism

Acorns often symbolize potential and growth, representing how small things can grow into something great.

In Context

Acorns are associated with growth and potential, feeding wildlife and playing an important role in forest ecosystems as the seed for oak trees.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. Which is a synonym of “Acorns”?

Leaf
Flower
Nut
Blossom

‘Nut’ is correct as acorns are nuts produced by oak trees.

2. Fill in the blank: Squirrels gathered _______ to prepare for the winter months.

acorns
leaves
flowers
buds

‘Acorns’ is appropriate, as squirrels commonly gather them as food.

3. In which context would “acorns” be MOST appropriate?

Describing a flower arrangement
Talking about food storage by animals
Referring to fallen leaves
Discussing plant roots

‘Talking about food storage by animals’ is appropriate as acorns are a common food source for wildlife.