cork
UK: kɔːk | US: kɔːrk
n. 1. The lightweight, elastic bark of the cork oak, used for bottle stoppers, insulation, etc.
n. 2. A bottle stopper made of this material.
vt. 1. To seal or stop with a cork.
The word "cork" traces back to the late Middle English corke, derived from Spanish corcho or Portuguese cortiça, both meaning "cork (bark)." These Iberian terms originate from Latin cortex (bark, rind), reflecting the material's natural source. The Latin root cortex also gives rise to words like "cortical" (relating to outer layers). The word's simplicity and direct association with its source material (the cork oak tree) have kept its form and meaning remarkably stable over centuries.
She popped the cork off the champagne bottle with a loud bang.
Cork is a sustainable material often used in flooring and insulation.
The fisherman used a cork float to keep his net visible.
Always cork the wine tightly to preserve its flavor.
The artisan crafted a beautiful bulletin board from recycled cork.