kernel (
http://definr.com/kernel)
n 1: 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" [syn:
meat]
2: a single whole grain of a cereal: "a kernel of corn"
3: 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" [syn:
substance,
core,
center,
essence,
gist,
heart,
heart and soul,
inwardness,
marrow,
meat,
nub,
pith,
sum,
nitty-gritty]