horse chestnut
• noun
A large deciduous tree (Aesculus hippocastanum) native to the Balkan Peninsula but widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide, distinguished by its broad palmate leaves, striking upright clusters of white or pink flowers, and spiny green fruit capsules.
"The grand old horse chestnut in the park provides wonderful shade and a beautiful floral display during the late spring."
The large, glossy brown seed produced by the horse chestnut tree, encased in a spiky green husk, which is mildly toxic to humans but widely collected by children to play the traditional autumn game of conkers.
"As autumn approached, the children scoured the ground beneath the trees to find the largest and hardest horse chestnut for their game."
Word Nuance & Usage
The horse chestnut is frequently confused with the sweet chestnut; however, while sweet chestnuts are highly edible and commonly roasted, horse chestnuts are mildly poisonous to humans and pets if consumed.
• Nearby Words
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.