Timber
'tɪmbər
Definitions
3 meaningsWood that has been processed and prepared for use in construction or carpentry.
'tɪmbər
Wood prepared for building and carpentry.
The carpenter carefully selected the timber for the project.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're building a treehouse! Timber is the wood you'd use, like the wooden planks and beams.
👶 For kids: Wood that is cut from trees and used to build things, like houses and furniture.
More Examples
The old barn was built with strong, seasoned timber.
The forest provided a valuable source of timber for the local economy.
How It's Used
"The frame of the house was constructed from sturdy timber."
"The company is managing their forests sustainably to ensure a consistent supply of timber."
Trees that are still standing, suitable for felling and processing into wood.
'tɪmbər
Standing trees.
The company manages their timber resources responsibly.
💡 Simply: The trees in the forest that are going to be cut down to make wood are also called timber, before they are prepared for construction.
👶 For kids: The trees in the forest.
More Examples
They are estimating the total volume of timber in the forest.
The value of the standing timber depends on its species and quality.
How It's Used
"The forest has a substantial amount of timber that is ready for harvest."
To support or provide with timber, as in a structure or mine.
'tɪmbər
To support or provide with timber.
The miners timbered the tunnel to prevent a cave-in.
💡 Simply: To *timber* something is like putting wood supports in it to make it stronger, like the supports in a mine shaft.
👶 For kids: To use wood to hold something up or keep it safe.
More Examples
The builders timbered the foundation of the house.
The structure was well-timbered for added support.
How It's Used
"They timbered the mine shaft to prevent collapse."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
timber! (warning)
A warning call shouted before a tree is felled.
"The lumberjack yelled "Timber!" before felling the tree."
From Old English *timber* 'building material, structure,' of Germanic origin; related to German *Zimmer* 'room'.
The word 'timber' has been used for centuries to refer to wood used in construction. Its use has evolved alongside advancements in building techniques and forestry practices.
Memory tip
Think of a lumberjack chopping down *timber* to build houses.
Word Origin
"building material, structure"