I am a seed with three letters in my name. Take away the last two and I still sound the same. What am I?

This clever word puzzle relies on the sound of letters rather than just their spelling. The seed in question has a three-letter name. When the last two letters are removed, the single remaining letter produces the exact same sound as the original three-letter word. This makes the humble pea the perfect answer, as "P-E-A" sounds identical to the letter "P" when spoken aloud.

Peas themselves boast a long and interesting history. These small, round seeds are technically legumes, a type of fruit, and belong to the family Fabaceae. Evidence suggests that peas have been cultivated for thousands of years, with archaeological findings placing them in ancient civilizations across the Middle East and Europe. Early varieties were often dried, making them a vital and storable food source for many cultures.

Today, peas remain a popular and versatile food enjoyed globally, whether fresh, frozen (Review), or canned. They are valued not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits, providing a good source of vitamins C and K, dietary fiber, and protein. Beyond their culinary appeal, peas also hold a significant place in scientific history, notably serving as the primary subject for Gregor Mendel's pioneering genetic experiments in the 19th century, which laid the groundwork for our understanding of heredity.