nutcracker

noun

nut·​crack·​er ˈnət-ˌkra-kər How to pronounce nutcracker (audio)
: an implement for cracking nuts

Examples of nutcracker in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Yes, every episode includes a murder investigation, but the crime is more likely to involve a paper shredder, a hot tub, or a giant nutcracker head than a gun. Michael Schneider, Variety, 27 Apr. 2026 But for her older son, her mother-in-law got him a board game, a nutcracker and a coffee table book about the artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 25 Dec. 2025 Nearly every inch is decked out in bright lights, nutcrackers, and holiday displays. Adi Guajardo, CBS News, 23 Dec. 2025 From the nutcracker to strolling through Old Sacramento, there is plenty to enjoy in the city of trees. Sacbee.com, 17 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for nutcracker

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of nutcracker was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Nutcracker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nutcracker. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

nutcracker

noun
nut·​crack·​er ˈnət-ˌkrak-ər How to pronounce nutcracker (audio)
: a device for cracking the shells of nuts

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