When is a nut not a nut? When the Botanical definition is used, rather than the more general English usage.

So, botanically, Hazelnuts, Sweet Chestnuts, Acorns and Beech nuts are nuts but Peanuts, Walnuts, Horse Chestnuts, Brazil nuts and Almonds aren’t.

The best explanation I’ve found for why this is can be found on the ‘Wayne’s Word’ website, in an article with great pictures entitled Fruits Called Nuts. I suggest you have a look if you want to know more.

Have a Happy Christmas!