Pronunciation: [mˈʌnkɪ nˈʌt] (IPA) 
The word "monkey nut" refers to a peanut that is still in its shell. The spelling of this word in IPA phonetic transcription would be /ˈmʌŋki nʌt/. The first syllable "mun" is pronounced with a short "u" sound, the second syllable "key" is pronounced with a long "e" sound, and the final syllable "nut" is pronounced with a short "u" sound. This word may also be referred to as a "groundnut" or a "peanut".
A monkey nut refers to a type of edible seed that is derived from the groundnut plant, scientifically known as Arachis hypogaea. It belongs to the legume family and is native to South America. The term "monkey nut" is primarily used in British English to describe the plant's seeds, which have a distinctive physical shape and are often enjoyed as a snack.
The monkey nut is enclosed within a shell consisting of two parts. The outer shell is rough, hard, and slightly oval-shaped, while the inner shell is relatively smooth and contains the edible seed. The seed itself is comparatively small, elongated, and usually consists of two halves that are attached at one end.
Monkey nuts are commonly consumed in their natural form or roasted for enhanced flavor. They possess a mild nutty taste and a slightly creamy texture. Monkey nuts can be enjoyed as a healthy snack due to their rich nutritional value. They are a good source of protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including folate, niacin, magnesium, and phosphorus.
While the name "monkey nut" might suggest a preference amongst primates, these seeds are also consumed by humans and used in various culinary applications. They can be found in trail mixes, baked goods, confections, or even ground into spreads, such as peanut butter.
The term "monkey nut" is primarily used in British English and is another name for the peanut, specifically when it is still in its shell. The etymology of the term can be traced back to the resemblance between the shelled peanut and the shape of a monkey's testicle. The word "monkey" refers to the animal, while "nut" describes the peanut itself. The phrase "monkey nut" is likely a combination of these two elements. It is worth noting that peanuts are not true nuts but are classified as legumes.
