Kernal vs. Kernel — Which is Correct Spelling?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on March 20, 2024
"Kernal" is incorrect, while "Kernel" is correct, referring to the central or essential part of something.
Table of Contents
Which is correct: Kernal or Kernel
How to spell Kernel?
Kernal
Incorrect Spelling
Kernel
Correct Spelling
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Key Differences
Think of "corn kernel," both have an "e" in the middle.
"Ker" as in "Kermit" + "nel" gives the right spelling.
"Kernal" sounds like "carnal" but remember it's about the core, not the carnal.
The essential part or core of any matter is the "kernel", not the "kernal."
Just as "jewel" has an 'e' before 'l', so does "kernel."
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How Do You Spell Kernel Correctly?
Incorrect: I found a small rock hidden inside the corn kernal.
Correct: I found a small rock hidden inside the corn kernel.
Incorrect: He likes to eat the kernal of the sunflower seeds.
Correct: He likes to eat the kernel of the sunflower seeds.
Incorrect: The popcorn didn't pop because the kernal was too old.
Correct: The popcorn didn't pop because the kernel was too old.
Incorrect: The wheat kernal is ground into flour for baking.
Correct: The wheat kernel is ground into flour for baking.
Incorrect: Can you see the difference between this kernal and that one?
Correct: Can you see the difference between this kernel and that one?
Kernel Definitions
"Kernel" denotes the inner, edible part of a seed, nut, or fruit stone.
The popcorn kernel popped into a fluffy snack.
"Kernel" refers to the most important part or core of something.
The kernel of his argument was about freedom.
In computing, "Kernel" is the central component of an operating system.
The OS kernel manages system resources efficiently.
"Kernel" can signify a smaller group within a larger group or entity.
The kernel of dedicated followers remained loyal.
"Kernel" also means a starting point of crystallization in a solution.
The salt solution formed a kernel that grew into a crystal.
A softer, usually edible part of a nut, seed, or fruit stone contained within its shell
The kernel of a walnut
Pine kernels
The central or most important part of something
This is the kernel of the argument
A grain or seed, as of a cereal grass, enclosed in a husk.
The usually edible seed inside the hard covering of a nut or fruit stone.
The central or most important part; the core
"The kernel of his practical religion was that it was respectable, and beneficial to one's business, to be seen going to services" (Sinclair Lewis).
A small amount of something, especially when potentially developing into something else
Detected a kernel of anger in his remarks.
The core, center, or essence of an object or system.
The kernel of an argument
(botany) The central (usually edible) part of a nut, especially once the hard shell has been removed.
(botany) A single seed or grain, especially of corn or wheat.
The stone of certain fruits, such as peaches or plums.
A small mass around which other matter is concreted; a nucleus; a concretion or hard lump in the flesh.
(computing) The central part of many computer operating systems which manages the system's resources and the communication between hardware and software components.
The Linux kernel is open-source.
(computing) The core engine of any complex software system.
(calculus) A function used to define an integral transform.
The Dirichlet kernel convolved with a function yields its Fourier series approximation.
(mathematics) A set of pairs of a mapping's domain which are mapped to the same value.
For a given function (especially a linear map between vector spaces), the set of elements in the domain which are mapped to zero; (formally) given f : X → Y, the set {x ∈ X : f(x) = 0}.
If a function is continuous then its kernel is a closed set.
For a category with zero morphisms: the equalizer of a given morphism and the zero morphism which is parallel to that given morphism.
The set of members of a fuzzy set that are fully included (i.e., whose grade of membership is 1).
(slang) The human clitoris.
(chemistry) The nucleus and electrons of an atom excluding its valence electrons.
To enclose within a kernel
To crenellate
The essential part of a seed; all that is within the seed walls; the edible substance contained in the shell of a nut; hence, anything included in a shell, husk, or integument; as, the kernel of a nut. See Illust. of Endocarp.
'A were as good crack a fusty nut with no kernel
A single seed or grain; as, a kernel of corn.
The central, substantial or essential part of anything; the gist; the core; as, the kernel of an argument.
To harden or ripen into kernels; to produce kernels.
The inner and usually edible part of a seed or grain or nut or fruit stone;
Black walnut kernels are difficult to get out of the shell
A single whole grain of a cereal;
A kernel of corn
The choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience;
The gist of the prosecutor's argument
The heart and soul of the Republican Party
The nub of the story
Kernel Meaning in a Sentence
Each corn kernel popped into fluffy popcorn.
He carefully removed the kernel from the apricot.
The chef used the kernel of the almond to add flavor to the dish.
The kernel of her idea was innovative and promising.
The kernel of the nut was very hard to crack open.
The kernel of truth in his story was hard to find.
The bird picked at the kernel of the grain with precision.
He enjoyed eating the sweet kernel of the peach.
A kernel of wisdom was shared by the elder to the youth.
The computer's operating system has a very stable kernel.
The scientist examined the kernel under a microscope.
The kernel of the pomegranate is both sweet and tart.
The kernel of his advice was to always stay true to oneself.
The kernel of their disagreement was a misunderstanding.
The software update included changes to the kernel for better performance.
She expressed the kernel of her argument with clarity.
A single kernel can grow into a whole new plant.
The kernel inside the cherry pit is toxic if ingested.
Finding the kernel in a pine nut can be a meticulous task.
The kernel of corn is a staple food in many cultures.
Each kernel in the cob is a potential source of new life.
The kernel of the story captured everyone's imagination.
The kernel of the olive contains oil that can be extracted.
Kernel Idioms & Phrases
The kernel of the issue
The central or most important part of a problem.
The kernel of the issue is not the lack of resources but how we allocate them.
A kernel of truth
A small but significant amount of truth.
There's usually a kernel of truth in every rumor.
Kernel of wisdom
A fundamental piece of practical wisdom.
His grandfather's advice contained a kernel of wisdom that he followed all his life.
Common Curiosities
Which vowel is used before Kernel?
The context determines the vowel used before "Kernel," but there isn’t a specific vowel always preceding it.
What is the verb form of Kernel?
Kernel is primarily a noun. It doesn’t have a standard verb form. However, in some contexts, one might encounter "kerneling" as a verb form.
What is the pronunciation of Kernel?
The pronunciation is /ˈkɜːrnl/.
Why is it called Kernel?
It's called "Kernel" because it derives from Old English "cyrnel", meaning seed or grain, referring to the innermost part.
What is the singular form of Kernel?
The singular form is "Kernel."
What is the root word of Kernel?
The root word is the Old English "cyrnel."
Which preposition is used with Kernel?
Different prepositions can be used with "Kernel," but "of" is common, as in "kernel of truth."
Which article is used with Kernel?
Both "a" and "the" can be used with "Kernel" depending on the context.
Which conjunction is used with Kernel?
No specific conjunction is always used with "Kernel." It can be used with various conjunctions depending on the sentence.
Is Kernel an abstract noun?
It can be, especially when referring to the essence or core of an idea.
What is the plural form of Kernel?
The plural form is "Kernels."
Is Kernel an adverb?
No, "Kernel" is not an adverb.
Is Kernel a collective noun?
No, "Kernel" is not a collective noun.
Is the Kernel term a metaphor?
It can be used metaphorically, as in "kernel of truth."
Is Kernel a negative or positive word?
"Kernel" is neutral in connotation.
Is the word Kernel imperative?
No, "Kernel" is not imperative as it is a noun.
Is the word Kernel a Gerund?
No, "Kernel" is not a gerund.
How many syllables are in Kernel?
There are two syllables in "Kernel."
What is another term for Kernel?
Another term could be "core" or "nucleus."
Is Kernel a countable noun?
Yes, "Kernel" is a countable noun. E.g., kernels of corn.
How do we divide Kernel into syllables?
Ker-nel.
Is Kernel a vowel or consonant?
"Kernel" is a word, not a single letter, so it contains both vowels and consonants.
What is a stressed syllable in Kernel?
The stressed syllable is "Ker."
What part of speech is Kernel?
"Kernel" is a noun.
Which determiner is used with Kernel?
Determiners like "this," "that," "a," and "the" can be used with "Kernel" depending on the context.
Is Kernel a noun or adjective?
"Kernel" is primarily a noun.
Is the word “Kernel” a Direct object or an Indirect object?
"Kernel" can serve as a direct object in a sentence, depending on its usage.
What is the opposite of Kernel?
There isn’t a direct opposite, but "shell" or "husk" can be considered opposites in certain contexts.
What is the third form of Kernel?
Kernel doesn't have verb forms.
How is Kernel used in a sentence?
"The kernel of the idea came to her during a brainstorming session."
What is the first form of Kernel?
Kernel doesn't have verb forms. It remains "Kernel."
What is the second form of Kernel?
Kernel doesn't have verb forms.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
