Pinon (also spelled "piñon")
Noun:
1. A small pine tree (Pinus edulis) native to the Southwestern United States and Mexico, typically growing at altitudes ranging from 1,500 to 2,500 meters. It is characterized by its rounded crown and short, blue-green needles and produces edible seeds in oval-shaped cones.
2. The edible seed of the pinon tree. These small, oval nuts are protected within the mature cones and have a delicate flavor that is often described as mildly sweet and nutty. Pinon seeds are a traditional food source for Native American tribes in the Southwest and are used in various culinary dishes, such as stews, breads, and desserts.
3. A type of pine wood derived from the pinon tree. This wood is known for its rich aroma and is often used for smoking foods or in the construction of furniture, flooring, and other wooden products.
4. (Informal) A term used to refer to the gathering or harvesting of pinon nuts. This activity has cultural significance among Native American communities and represents a communal effort, often accompanied by traditional rituals and celebrations.
Verb:
1. (transitive) To harvest or gather pinon nuts from the cones of the pinon tree.
Adjective:
1. Relating to or characteristic of the pinon tree or pinon nuts.
Overall, pinon is a term that encompasses various aspects related to the tree, its seeds, the wood it produces, and the cultural practices associated with its harvest and consumption.
