What does husk mean?
A husk is the external covering of a fruit, grain, seed, or similar plant material. The word is especially familiar in the context of maize, whose kernels grow inside a tough, fibrous husk. As a verb, “husk” means to remove that outer layer, either by hand or with a tool; related activities include husking corn, beans, and grains. The noun can also describe a shell or covering more generally, though such uses are less common than the agricultural sense. A figurative use, “a husk of a person,” describes someone physically weakened, emotionally exhausted, or reduced to a superficial shell, but this expression is literary rather than everyday. The word is especially natural in American English, where maize-related usage is particularly established, while it is also understood in British English. In all its senses, “husk” evokes the contrast between an outer protective layer and the useful or living material within.
The dry outer covering of a fruit, grain, seed, or similar plant material; also, more generally, a shell or thin outer layer.
"The squirrel carried away an ear of corn still wrapped in its husk."
The agricultural sense is especially common in American English. The figurative use describing an exhausted or superficial person is literary.
To remove the outer covering from grain, fruit, or a similar plant material.
"Workers husked the maize before transporting it to the mill."
This is a common verb in agricultural and food-processing contexts.
Use “husks” when referring to multiple outer coverings, especially those of maize, grains, or fruits.
"The children piled the empty corn husks beside the basket."
A husk may look like the whole plant or grain, but the edible treasure is usually hiding inside it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does husk come from?
The word comes from Middle English “huske,” referring to the outer covering of grain or seeds. Its ultimate origin is generally connected with Old Norse “husk,” meaning a shell or husk, although the precise history of the word’s development is not entirely certain. The agricultural meaning was established in English by the Middle Ages, while the verb meaning developed from the practice of removing the covering from grain.
Related word forms
How husk is actually used
In its literal agricultural senses, “husk” is common in American English and is especially associated with maize. The figurative sense describing a person as a husk is literary and relatively uncommon. The verb “husk” is straightforward and formal enough for general use.