noun
- A tropical tree (Aleurites moluccanus) native to Southeast Asia, or its oily nut used to make candles, oil, and varnish.
Usage: Also called kukui nut or Indian walnut; The nut is the source of candlenut oil, historically used for lighting
Examples
- The candlenut tree grows abundantly in tropical regions.
- Candlenuts were traditionally burned as a source of light before modern candles became available.
- The oil extracted from candlenuts is used in traditional varnishes and finishes.
- In Hawaii, the candlenut is known as the kukui nut and is the state tree.
- Candlenut oil has been used in woodworking for centuries.