Pecans

/pɪˈkɑːnz/ noun

Definition

Plural of pecan; large, oblong nuts with thin shells that grow on pecan trees, primarily in North America, often used in pies and candy.

Etymology

From Algonquian (Native American) 'pakani,' meaning 'nut' or 'tough nut.' The word was borrowed by English colonists from the indigenous peoples of North America who cultivated these trees.

Kelly Says

Pecans are native to North America and were a major food source for Native Americans for thousands of years before Europeans arrived. Georgia grows so many pecans that it's the official state tree—and pecan pie is an icon of American Southern cooking!

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