candlenut

American  

[kan-dl-nuht] / ˈkæn dlˌnʌt /

noun

1. the oily fruit or nut of a southeastern Asian tree, Aleurites moluccana, of the spurge family, the kernels of which when strung together are used locally as candles.

2. the tree itself.

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candlenut British  

/ ˈkændəlˌnʌt /

noun

1. a euphorbiaceous tree, Aleurites mollucana, of tropical Asia and Polynesia

2. the nut of this tree, which yields an oil used in paints and varnishes. In their native regions the nuts are strung together and burned as candles

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Etymology

Origin of candlenut

First recorded in 1850–55; candle + nut

Example Sentences

It’s a fitting name, given its ever-changing array of punchy plates from Penang curry with salted beef and candlenut to grilled salted beef served with “daddy’s special sauce.”

From Salon • Apr. 8, 2025

Global Forest Watch says there are around 50 to 60 other, more environmentally friendly plants apart from palm oil, like candlenut and coconut, that could be used in Indonesia.

From BBC • Dec. 7, 2021

One or two candlenut torches dimly illumined the figures of the squatting women who remained.

From White Shadows in the South Seas by O'Brien, Frederick

There were forests of koa and kolea trees, and candlenut trees; and then there were the trees called ohia-ai, which bore red mountain apples, mellow and juicy and most excellent to eat.

From The Cruise of the Snark by London, Jack

To my vision the high black seats were filled with shadowy figures, the light of candlenut torches fell on tattooed faces and gleaming eyes.

From White Shadows in the South Seas by O'Brien, Frederick