Search Dictionary
Definition of pecan

pecan

/pɪˈkɑːn/
pe · can
Plural:pecans
JUMP TO:

pecan Lexical Profile

pecan Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A smooth, brown, oval nut with a rich, buttery flavor, widely used in culinary dishes, confections, and baked goods.

Example

"She baked a classic pecan pie for the family's Thanksgiving dinner."

2

A large, deciduous hickory tree native to the southern United States and northern Mexico, cultivated for its valuable wood and edible nuts.

Example

"We planted a small pecan in the backyard, hoping it would eventually provide ample summer shade."

• Rhymes for pecan

• Nearby Words

pebbled
pebbly
pec
pecan
peccary
pechora
peck

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed into English in the late 18th century from French 'pacane', which originated from an Algonquian word (such as the Illinois 'pakani') denoting any hard-shelled nut that requires a stone to crack.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Pecan. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/pecan
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.