Kernal or Kernel: The Correct Spellings

Remembering how to spell "kernel" can be easier if you associate the word with similar-sounding words that share the "er" pattern, like "her" or "fern." You could think of a "kernel" as the "heart" of the seed, both containing the "er" sound.

The correct spelling is "kernel," not "kernal." "Kernel" is a noun that refers to the inner, edible part of a seed, nut, or fruit stone, or a central or integral part of something. "Kernal" is simply a common misspelling of the word and has no meaning in English. The word "kernel" has its origins in the Old English "cyren" which came from the Germanic root "kurnam," possibly referring to a grain or seed.

Incorrect: Finding the kernal in a pile of husks is a difficult task.

Correct: Finding the kernel in a pile of husks is a difficult task.

Incorrect: She was searching for the magical kernal of truth in the ancient texts.

Correct: She was searching for the magical kernel of truth in the ancient texts.

Incorrect: A single popcorn kernal can cause a lot of trouble if it gets stuck in your teeth.

Correct: A single popcorn kernel can cause a lot of trouble if it gets stuck in your teeth.

Incorrect: Every peach pit contains a kernal that can potentially grow into a new tree.

Correct: Every peach pit contains a kernel that can potentially grow into a new tree.

Incorrect: The kernal of the idea came to him in a dream.

Correct: The kernel of the idea came to him in a dream.

The inner part of a nut or seed.

A tiny amount or the start of something.

In computing, the core of an operating system.

The central or most important part of something.

A whole seed of a cereal.

He offered a kernel of advice that I took to heart.

He cracked the nut open and extracted the kernel.

At the heart of her philosophy was a kernel of profound truth.

The story had a kernel of reality that made it believable.

In every myth, there is a kernel that resonates with people.

You must remove the kernel from the pit before planting.

The kernel of their problem was a lack of communication.

The popcorn won’t pop unless the kernel reaches the right temperature.

The kernel is often considered the most nutritious part of the grain.

She savored the kernel of the cherry, careful not to bite into the pit.

The most important piece of wisdom.

A fundamental element of truth in a statement or belief.

The valuable part hidden within something worthless or unimportant.

The root cause or central issue of a problem.

To hold the essential part or carry the main weight of something.

A fundamental piece of knowledge that can be expanded upon.

Everything; from the core to the outer layer.

To look for the essential or true nature of something.

A small, central opportunity that could be developed into something significant.

To develop from a basic idea or small beginning.

While 'kernel' and 'corn' are both related to grains, they come from different etymological roots and refer to different things.

Yes, 'kernel' can also refer to the core or central part of anything, not just a nut or seed.

The word 'kernel' has its roots in the Old English 'cyren' which likely came from the Germanic root 'kurnam,' meaning a grain or seed.

In computing, a 'kernel' refers to the core component of an operating system that manages communications between hardware and software.

No, 'kernal' is a common misspelling and is not an accepted variant of 'kernel.'

'Kernel' is primarily used as a noun in English and does not have a verb form.

No, 'kernel' does not have a derivative adjective form. The word 'kernel' itself is always a noun.

One trick to remember 'kernel' is to think of it as the 'core' element; both words have 'er' in the middle.

Yes, the plural form of 'kernel' is 'kernels.'

'Kernel' is commonly used in contexts related to agriculture, computing, and to metaphorically describe the central part of an issue or idea.