spruce
UK: spruːs | US: spruːs
n. 1. A type of coniferous tree (genus Picea) with needle-like leaves and conical shape.
n. 2. The wood of this tree, used in construction or papermaking.
adj. Neat, trim, or smart in appearance (e.g., "spruce attire").
vt. To make something neat or tidy (e.g., "spruced up the room").
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The word "spruce" has a fascinating but debated history. Its arboreal meaning (tree/wood) likely derives from the Old French Pruce (Prussia), as the tree was associated with goods imported from Prussia in the 14th century. The adjective/verb sense ("neat") emerged in the 16th century, possibly from the idea of "dressed in fine Prussian fashion" or the tree's straight, tidy appearance. The dual meanings reflect a cultural link between natural elegance and human refinement.
The spruce trees stood tall against the winter sky.
Furniture made of spruce is lightweight yet durable.
He wore a spruce suit to the interview.
She spent the morning sprucing up the garden.
A spruce-up of the old café attracted new customers.