nub

noun

1. a small lump or protuberance

Similar word(s): nubble

Definition categories: shape, bulge, bump, excrescence, extrusion, gibbosity, gibbousness, hump, jut, prominence, protrusion, protuberance, swelling

2. a small piece

- a nub of coal

Similar word(s): stub

Definition categories: object, part, piece

3. the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience

- the nub of the story

Similar word(s): center, centre, core, essence, gist, heart, inwardness, kernel, marrow, meat, pith, substance, sum

Definition categories: thought, content

verb

1. (baseball) To hit the ball weakly.

2. To push; to nudge.

3. To beckon.