Hazelnuts are small, flavorful nuts used in desserts, chocolate spreads, baked goods, and many everyday recipes. They are known by several different names around the world. Some names refer to the nut itself, while others describe the tree or its botanical identity.
If you are searching for another name for hazelnut, you may have come across words such as filbert, cobnut, and Corylus. These terms are closely related, but they do not always mean exactly the same thing.
Understanding the differences can help you choose the right word for a recipe, grocery list, food label, or general conversation. This guide explores common hazelnut synonyms, regional names, scientific terminology, and related words in simple language.
What Is Another Name for Hazelnut?
The most common alternative name for a hazelnut is filbert. In some regions, people also use the terms cobnut and hazel nut. These names generally refer to edible nuts produced by trees in the Corylus genus.
Here are some commonly used alternatives:
- Filbert – A widely recognized alternative name for hazelnut.
- Cobnut – A traditional name for certain cultivated hazelnuts, especially in Britain.
- Hazel Nut – An alternative spelling of hazelnut.
- Common Hazel Nut – A descriptive name associated with nuts from the common hazel tree.
- Corylus Nut – A botanical-style expression based on the tree’s genus.
- European Hazelnut – A name for the widely cultivated European species.
- Turkish Hazelnut – A regional reference associated with hazelnut production in Turkey.
- Wild Hazelnut – A general term for nuts collected from naturally growing hazel trees.
- Tree Nut – A broader food category that includes hazelnuts.
- Sweet Hazel Nut – A descriptive name highlighting the nut’s mild, sweet flavor.
- Common Filbert – Another name associated with the common hazel species.
- Cultivated Hazelnut – A term for hazelnuts grown for commercial or personal use.
- Hazel Kernel – The edible inner part of the nut.
- Roasted Filbert – A name used for hazelnuts prepared by roasting.
- Raw Filbert – A term for an uncooked hazelnut.
Filbert is the best-known direct alternative. Cobnut is also recognized, but its use is more closely connected with particular cultivated varieties and regional traditions.
What Is a Filbert?
A filbert is another name commonly used for a hazelnut. The two words often describe the same type of edible nut. Filbert is especially familiar in certain parts of the United States and in commercial food terminology.
The word has historical roots in European naming traditions. Some explanations connect it with Saint Philibert’s feast day, which falls near the traditional hazelnut harvest season.
Filberts come from hazel trees belonging to the Corylus genus. They have a hard outer shell and a rounded or slightly elongated edible kernel.
Common uses include:
- Chocolate and hazelnut spreads
- Cakes and cookies
- Nut butter
- Roasted snack mixes
- Ice cream toppings
- Pastries and confectionery
- Breakfast cereals
- Nut-based sauces
The words hazelnut and filbert are often interchangeable in recipes. A recipe asking for filberts will usually work with ordinary hazelnuts.
What Is a Cobnut?
A cobnut is another name associated with certain cultivated hazelnuts. The term is particularly familiar in Britain, where cobnut cultivation has a long history.
Cobnuts are grown on hazel trees and harvested for their edible kernels. They can be eaten fresh, dried, or roasted. Fresh cobnuts often have a softer texture and a milder taste than fully dried nuts.
The word is sometimes used broadly as a synonym for hazelnut. Its meaning can be more specific in traditional British horticulture.
Here are some related terms:
- Kentish Cob
- Cobnut
- Cultivated Cob
- Fresh Cobnut
- Dried Cobnut
- Roasted Cobnut
- Wild Cob
- Hazel Cob
- Garden Cobnut
- Common Cob
- Nut Cob
- British Cobnut
These terms are useful when discussing hazelnut varieties, cultivation, and traditional food products.
Scientific Name for Hazelnut
The scientific name most commonly associated with the cultivated European hazelnut is Corylus avellana.
It belongs to the Betulaceae family, which also includes birch trees. The Corylus genus contains several species of hazel trees and shrubs.
Here are important botanical terms related to hazelnuts:
- Corylus – The botanical genus of hazel plants.
- Corylus avellana – The European hazel species.
- Corylus americana – The American hazelnut species.
- Corylus cornuta – The beaked hazel species.
- Corylus colurna – The Turkish hazel species.
- Betulaceae – The botanical family that includes hazel trees.
- Filbert Tree – A common name for certain hazel trees.
- Hazel Tree – The plant that produces hazelnuts.
- Hazel Shrub – A descriptive term for smaller hazel plants.
- Hazel Kernel – The edible seed inside the shell.
- Nut Involucre – The leafy covering surrounding the developing nut.
- Corylus Species – A general botanical reference to members of this genus.
The scientific name can vary depending on the hazel species. Corylus avellana is the most relevant name for many commercially sold hazelnuts.
Different Types of Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts come from several species of hazel trees. Their size, shape, shell characteristics, and growing conditions can vary.
Here are some recognized types:
- European Hazelnut – Widely cultivated for commercial nut production.
- American Hazelnut – A native North American species with smaller nuts.
- Beaked Hazelnut – Recognized by its distinctive beak-like husk.
- Turkish Hazelnut – A tree species known for its attractive growth and distinctive nuts.
- Barcelona Hazelnut – A popular cultivated variety.
- Ennis Hazelnut – A large-kernel variety grown commercially.
- Jefferson Hazelnut – A cultivated variety developed for orchard production.
- Yamhill Hazelnut – A variety known for its useful kernel qualities.
- Lewis Hazelnut – A cultivated variety grown in hazelnut orchards.
- Tonda Gentile – An Italian hazelnut variety valued in confectionery.
- Tonda di Giffoni – An Italian variety used in food production.
- Tombul Hazelnut – A well-known Turkish commercial variety.
- Palaz Hazelnut – Another cultivated Turkish variety.
- Cavcava Hazelnut – A traditional Turkish hazelnut variety.
- Butler Hazelnut – A cultivated variety used in orchard production.
These varieties are not separate synonyms for the nut. They are names for different hazelnut species or cultivated varieties.
Other Words Related to Hazelnuts
Some words are closely connected with hazelnuts without being direct synonyms. These terms can be helpful when reading food labels, recipes, gardening guides, or botanical descriptions.

- Nut Kernel – The edible part inside the shell.
- Hazel – The tree or shrub that produces the nuts.
- Filbert Tree – Another common name for a hazel tree.
- Nut Shell – The hard protective covering.
- Nutmeat – The edible portion of a nut.
- Nut Crop – Hazelnuts grown for harvesting.
- Orchard Nut – A broad descriptive expression for cultivated nuts.
- Roasted Nut – A nut cooked using dry heat.
- Blanched Hazelnut – A hazelnut with its outer skin removed.
- Ground Hazelnut – Hazelnuts processed into small pieces or powder.
- Hazelnut Meal – Finely ground hazelnuts used in baking.
- Hazelnut Flour – A flour-like product made from ground hazelnuts.
- Hazelnut Butter – A spread made by grinding hazelnuts.
- Praline – A confection that can contain caramelized hazelnuts.
- Nut Paste – A smooth mixture made from ground nuts.
These expressions describe hazelnut products, parts, or uses rather than alternative names for the whole nut.
What Are Hazelnuts Called in Different Countries?
Hazelnuts are enjoyed in many countries. Their names can change based on language, regional food traditions, and local pronunciation.
Here are some international names:
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| English | Hazelnut |
| French | Noisette |
| Spanish | Avellana |
| Italian | Nocciola |
| German | Haselnuss |
| Portuguese | Avelã |
| Turkish | Fındık |
| Dutch | Hazelnoot |
| Swedish | Hasselnöt |
| Danish | Hasselnød |
| Norwegian | Hasselnøtt |
| Finnish | Hasselpähkinä |
| Polish | Orzech laskowy |
| Russian | Фундук (Funduk) |
| Arabic | بندق (Bunduq) |
| Urdu | فندق (Funduq) |
| Hindi | हेज़लनट (Hazelnut) |
Some of these words are direct translations, while others are the commonly used local names for the nut.
Popular Foods Made With Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts have a rich, slightly sweet, buttery taste. Their flavor works well in both sweet and savory dishes.
Here are popular foods and products that use them:
- Hazelnut Chocolate Spread – A smooth spread combining chocolate and hazelnuts.
- Gianduja – An Italian chocolate and hazelnut confection.
- Hazelnut Praline – A sweet mixture of caramelized nuts.
- Hazelnut Truffles – Chocolate treats filled with hazelnut ingredients.
- Hazelnut Cookies – Baked treats with chopped or ground nuts.
- Hazelnut Brownies – Chocolate brownies with a crunchy nut texture.
- Hazelnut Cake – A cake made with hazelnut flour or chopped kernels.
- Hazelnut Biscotti – Crunchy Italian-style cookies.
- Hazelnut Ice Cream – Frozen dessert flavored with hazelnuts.
- Hazelnut Coffee – Coffee flavored with hazelnut syrup or flavoring.
- Hazelnut Butter – A spread made from blended hazelnuts.
- Hazelnut Milk – A plant-based drink made using hazelnuts.
- Hazelnut Granola – A breakfast mixture containing oats and nuts.
- Hazelnut Tart – A pastry filled with hazelnut cream or nut-based filling.
- Hazelnut Macarons – Delicate cookies that may contain ground hazelnuts.
Hazelnuts are especially popular in chocolate products. Their natural richness balances the sweetness of cocoa and sugar.
Raw Hazelnuts vs. Roasted Hazelnuts
Raw and roasted hazelnuts are two common forms sold in grocery stores. Both come from the same nut, but their flavor and texture are different.
| Feature | Raw Hazelnuts | Roasted Hazelnuts |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Mild and slightly sweet | Rich and toasted |
| Texture | Firm | Often crispier |
| Color | Light brown skin | Darker toasted appearance |
| Aroma | Subtle | Strong nutty aroma |
| Common use | Baking and cooking | Snacks and desserts |
| Preparation | Uncooked | Heated during preparation |
Raw hazelnuts are useful in recipes that require further cooking or baking. Roasted varieties have a stronger flavor and work well as snacks or dessert toppings.
The thin brown skin of a hazelnut can taste slightly bitter. Roasting often makes it easier to remove.
What Does a Hazelnut Look Like?
A hazelnut is a small, round or oval-shaped nut. It usually has a hard brown shell that protects the edible kernel.
The kernel has a light cream color with a thin brown skin. Its shape depends on the variety. Some hazelnuts are almost round, while others are longer and more oval.
A hazelnut grows on a hazel tree or shrub. The developing nut is surrounded by a leafy covering called an involucre.
Important visual features include:
- A hard outer shell
- A rounded or oval shape
- A cream-colored kernel
- A thin brown outer skin
- A leafy covering during growth
- A rich brown color after roasting
Hazelnuts are easy to recognize by their rounded shape and familiar nutty appearance.
FAQs
1. What is another name for hazelnut?
Filbert is the most common alternative name for hazelnut. Cobnut is another recognized term, especially in British food and gardening traditions.
2. Are hazelnuts and filberts the same thing?
Yes. The words hazelnut and filbert are commonly used for the same edible nut. The difference is mainly regional and historical.
3. Is a cobnut the same as a hazelnut?
A cobnut is a type of cultivated hazelnut. The name is commonly associated with British varieties and traditions. The terms can overlap in everyday use.
4. What is the scientific name of hazelnut?
The scientific name of the European hazelnut is Corylus avellana. Other hazelnut species have different scientific names within the Corylus genus.
5. What is the Urdu name for hazelnut?
Hazelnut is called Funduq (فندق) in Urdu. The same word is also used in Arabic.
Conclusion
Filbert is the best-known alternative name for hazelnut. Cobnut is another familiar term, while Corylus avellana is the scientific name for the European hazelnut.
The words may vary by region, language, and context, but they are closely connected with the same delicious tree nut. Knowing these names makes it easier to understand recipes, food labels, and botanical descriptions. If you need a simple everyday synonym, filbert is an excellent choice.

Mr Zain created NameMeaningBase to help people explore the beauty and significance of names. From popular baby names to unique names and their origins, I strive to deliver useful insights that inspire curiosity and help readers find names with meaning.