(~s)
1.
The ~ of a nut is the part that is inside the shell.
N-COUNT
2.
The ~ of something is the central and most important part of it.
The ~ of that message was that peace must not be a source of advantage or disadvantage for anyone.
= core, crux
N-COUNT: usu sing, usu N of n
3.
A ~ of something is a small element of it.
For all I know, there may be a ~ of truth in what he says.
= grain
N-COUNT: usu sing, usu N of n