n. 1 the oval nutlike seed (kernel) of the stone-fruit from the tree Prunus dulcis, of which there are sweet and bitter varieties. 2 the tree itself, of the rose family and allied to the peach and plum. almond eyes narrow almond-shaped eyes. almond oil the oil expressed from the seed (esp. the bitter variety), used for toilet preparations, flavouring, and medicinal purposes. almond paste = MARZIPAN.
[ ME f. OF alemande etc. f. med.L amandula f. L amygdala f. Gk amugdale: assoc. with words in AL- ]