noun
nub
nuhb
Nub (noun) means the central point or essence of a matter. Example: “The nub of the argument was who should pay for the repairs.”
noun
1
The central point or essence of a matter.
"The nub of the argument was who should pay for the repairs."
2
A small lump, knob, or protruding piece.
"There was a small nub on the remote where a button used to be."
How to use nub
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither a small bump, or (more often) the core point of an issue.
Common pairings
the nub of the matter
nub of the problem
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Word forms
- Plural
- nubs
- Third person singular
- nubs
- Past tense
- nubbed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ of the argument was who should pay for the repairs.
Etymology
Related to Low German words for "knot" or "lump," and to the English word "knob."
Related words
Rhymes for nub
See all rhymes for nub →Frequently asked questions
What does “nub” mean?
The word “nub” means the central point or essence of a matter. In plain terms, either a small bump, or (more often) the core point of an issue.
How do you pronounce “nub”?
“Nub” is pronounced nuhb (/nʌb/ in IPA).
How do you use “nub” in a sentence?
Here is “nub” used in a sentence: “The nub of the argument was who should pay for the repairs.”
What part of speech is “nub”?
“Nub” is a noun.
Where does the word “nub” come from?
The word “nub” comes from German. Related to Low German words for "knot" or "lump," and to the English word "knob.".
How many meanings does “nub” have?
“Nub” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the central point or essence of a matter.
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