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Groundnut vs. Peanut: What's the Difference?

Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 6, 2023
"Groundnut" and "Peanut" generally refer to the same legume primarily used for its edible seeds; however, "Groundnut" is more commonly used in British English, while "Peanut" is the preferred term in American English.

Key Differences

"Groundnut" is a term commonly employed in the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries to describe the edible seed of the legume Arachis hypogaea. In contrast, "Peanut" is the term predominantly used in the United States and Canada for the same edible seed.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023
In both cases, "Groundnut" and "Peanut" are cultivated for their seeds, which are high in protein and used in a variety of food products. Both terms refer to the same plant and are often used interchangeably in global trade and culinary discussions.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023
However, "Groundnut" can also refer to other plants that produce underground tubers, which adds a layer of ambiguity to the term. On the other hand, "Peanut" is specifically tailored to Arachis hypogaea and is less likely to cause confusion.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023
From a culinary perspective, both "Groundnuts" and "Peanuts" serve similar purposes. They are used to make oils, butters, and are often consumed as snacks or included in dishes. From a botanical standpoint, both terms refer to a legume rather than a true nut.
Janet White
Sep 18, 2023

Comparison Chart

Common Usage

British English
American English
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023
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Botanical Family

Legume
Legume
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023

Culinary Applications

Oils, butters, snacks
Oils, butters, snacks
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023

Ambiguity

Can refer to other plants
Specifically Arachis hypogaea
Aimie Carlson
Sep 18, 2023

Global Trade

Often used
More commonly used
Sara Rehman
Sep 18, 2023

Groundnut and Peanut Definitions

Groundnut

A legume cultivated for its edible seeds.
The groundnut is a major export for several countries.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 18, 2023
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Peanut

The American English term for Arachis hypogaea.
Peanuts are often salted and roasted.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023

Groundnut

The British English term for Arachis hypogaea.
Groundnuts are often used in African cuisines.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 18, 2023

Peanut

A seed used for its oil and butter.
Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are popular in America.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023

Groundnut

A term that may refer to other tuber-producing plants.
The term groundnut can sometimes lead to confusion.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 18, 2023

Peanut

A legume, not a true nut.
Despite its name, the peanut is actually a legume.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023
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Groundnut

A high-protein food source.
Groundnuts are rich in proteins and nutrients.
Harlon Moss
Sep 18, 2023

Peanut

A source of plant-based protein.
Peanuts are an excellent plant-based protein option.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023

Groundnut

A climbing vine (Apios americana) in the pea family, native to eastern North America, having compound leaves, clusters of fragrant brownish flowers, and small edible tubers.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

A prostrate southern Brazilian plant (Arachis hypogaea) widely cultivated in tropical and warm temperate regions, having yellow flowers on stalks that bend over so that the seed pods ripen underground.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Groundnut

Any of several plants having underground tubers or nutlike parts.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

The edible, nutlike, oily seed of this plant, used for food and as a source of oil. Also called regionally goober, goober pea.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Groundnut

The tuber or nutlike part of such a plant.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

A peanut-shaped piece of polystyrene, used in cushioning items during shipment.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Groundnut

Chiefly British and South Atlantic US A peanut.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

A small child. Often used as a term of affection.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Groundnut

A climbing vine, Apios americana, of eastern North America, having fragrant brownish flowers and small edible tubers.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

A person who is regarded as insignificant.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Groundnut

Any similar plant having underground tubers.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

Peanuts(Informal) A very small amount of money; a trifling sum.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Groundnut

The nutlike tuber of such a plant, especially peanuts.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

A legume resembling a nut, the fruit of the plant Arachis hypogaea.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Groundnut

A plant which bears its nutlike seeds underground, such as a peanut (Arachis hypogaea) or a Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea).
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

(US) A very small clam.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Groundnut

The fruit of the Arachis hypogæa (native country uncertain); the peanut; the earthnut.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

See very small amount.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Groundnut

A North American vine with fragrant blossoms and edible tubers; important food crop of Native Americans
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

(transitive) To pull on somebody's tie as a prank, causing the knot to tighten.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Groundnut

Nutlike tuber; important food of Native Americans
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

The fruit of a trailing leguminous plant (Arachis hypogæa); also, the plant itself, which is widely cultivated for its fruit.
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Groundnut

Pod of the peanut vine containing usually 2 nuts or seeds; `groundnut' and `monkey nut' are British terms
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

Underground pod of the peanut vine
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Groundnut

A seed used in making oils and butters.
Groundnut oil is commonly used for frying.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023

Peanut

Widely cultivated American plant cultivated in tropical and warm regions; showy yellow flowers on stalks that bend over to the soil so that seed pods ripen underground
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

A young child who is small for his age
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

Pod of the peanut vine containing usually 2 nuts or seeds; `groundnut' and `monkey nut' are British terms
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

Of little importance or influence or power; of minor status;
A minor, insignificant bureaucrat
Peanut politicians
Sawaira Riaz
Apr 03, 2023

Peanut

A common ingredient in snacks and meals.
Peanuts are often used in Asian stir-fry dishes.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023

FAQs

Q: Why is it called a Groundnut?

A: It's called a Groundnut because the plant's pods develop underground.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023

Q: What is a Peanut?

A: A Peanut is the American term for the edible seed of the legume Arachis hypogaea.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023

Q: Is Groundnut oil the same as Peanut oil?

A: Yes, both oils are derived from the seeds of the same plant.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023

Q: What is a Groundnut?

A: A Groundnut is a legume primarily known for its edible seeds.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023

Q: Is Groundnut high in protein?

A: Yes, Groundnuts are a good source of plant-based protein.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023

Q: Are Groundnuts and Peanuts safe for pets?

A: Small amounts may be safe, but it's best to consult a vet due to potential allergens.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 18, 2023

Q: Are Groundnut and Peanut the same?

A: Yes, they generally refer to the same legume but are used in different regions.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023

Q: Are Peanuts true nuts?

A: No, despite the name, peanuts are legumes, not true nuts.
Janet White
Sep 18, 2023

Q: Can Groundnuts be allergic?

A: Yes, like peanuts, groundnuts can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023

Q: Where are Groundnuts commonly grown?

A: Groundnuts are grown in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Harlon Moss
Sep 18, 2023

Q: What foods commonly contain Peanuts?

A: Peanuts are found in snacks, butters, oils, and various dishes.
Harlon Moss
Sep 18, 2023

Q: Can Groundnuts be eaten raw?

A: They can be, but they are usually roasted, boiled, or used in dishes.
Janet White
Sep 18, 2023

Q: What’s the nutritional value of Peanuts?

A: Peanuts are rich in protein, healthy fats, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals.
Aimie Carlson
Sep 18, 2023

Q: Why is Peanut butter popular in America?

A: Peanut butter is popular for its taste, versatility, and nutritional content.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023

Q: What's the main use of Peanut oil?

A: Peanut oil is commonly used for frying due to its high smoke point.
Sawaira Riaz
Sep 18, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira Riaz
Sawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Huma Saeed
Huma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.

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