“Colonel” or “Kernel”

Overview

colonel / kernel are similar-sounding terms with different meanings (referred to as homophones). To better understand the differences, see below for definitions, pronunciation guides, and example sentences using each term. 👇

Definitions

colonel: (noun) a commissioned military officer in the United States Army or Air Force or Marines who ranks above a lieutenant colonel and below a brigadier general.

kernel: (noun) the inner and usually edible part of a seed or grain or nut or fruit stone. (noun) a single whole grain of a cereal. (noun) the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience.

Pronunciation

colonel: k·ER·n·ah·l

kernel: k·ER·n·ah·l

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