nubbin

[ nuhb-in ]

noun

1. a small lump or stunted piece; stub.
2. a small or imperfect ear of corn.
3. an undeveloped fruit.

nubbin

/ ˈnʌbɪn /

noun

1. something small or undeveloped, esp a fruit or ear of corn

Word History and Origins

Origin of nubbin¹

1685–95, Americanism; perhaps nub + -in, variant of -ing ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of nubbin¹

C19: diminutive of nub

Example Sentences

Linn’s sly sense of humor resurfaces in the terrific “Porky Marge,” a margherita pizza punctuated with crisp nubbins of bacon and showered with Romano cheese.

From Washington Post

We know how unlikely it is that Cassie, who has been depicted as a worn-down nubbin of PTSD through most of the film, would be able to get her revenge from beyond the grave.

From Vox

He took it to bed with him in the loft and read till his 'nubbin' of candle burned out.

From Project Gutenberg

Small nubbin' for all the world, but it stole the hot an' the smell o' the meat.'

From Project Gutenberg

Mother Howard hesitated at the brink of the very nubbin of it all, to Robert Fairchild.

From Project Gutenberg

Bimeby they wa'n't no stick left—only a nubbin, about four inches long, an' it was Rocky's turn.

From Project Gutenberg

Lincoln whispered to his friend, "Did you ever see so small a nubbin that had so much husk on it?"

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• fruit
• grain
• meat
• morsel
• nut