hardwood
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈhɑːrdwʊd/
KK: /ˈhɑrdˌwʊd/
adjective
Definition
Made from a type of tree that has dense and strong wood, often used for furniture and flooring.
Example
The table is made of hardwood, making it very durable.
Conversation
I just bought a new table made of hardwood.
That sounds really nice! Is it solid wood or a veneer?
It's solid hardwood, so it should last a long time.
Awesome! I love the look of hardwood furniture.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
dense
sturdy
solid
Antonyms
soft
fragile
weak
noun
Definition
Wood that comes from trees that have broad leaves and produce seeds, typically used for furniture and flooring.
Example
The table is made of beautiful hardwood that will last for many years.
Conversation
Have you seen the new floor they installed in the gym?
Yeah, it's made of hardwood, right?
Exactly! It feels so much better for playing basketball.
Root Explanation
Hardwood → The word is formed from "hard" (from Old English "heard", meaning solid or firm) and "wood" (from Old English "wudu", meaning tree or wood). The term "hardwood" refers to wood that is solid and firm, typically from deciduous trees.
Memory Tip
Think of 'hard' meaning solid and 'wood' referring to trees — hardwood is wood that comes from solid trees.
Visually Confused Words
hairwood
heartwood
tarwood
rodwood
redwood
barwood