timber
UK: ˈtɪmbə | US: ˈtɪmbər
n. wood prepared for use in building or carpentry
n. trees grown for wood production
n. (archaic) a piece of wood used in shipbuilding
The word "timber" originates from Old English timber, meaning "building material" or "structure," derived from Proto-Germanic temran ("to build"). It shares roots with German Zimmer ("room") and Dutch timmer ("carpentry"). The morpheme tim- reflects the core concept of wood as a construction material, while -ber may imply bearing or supporting a structure. Over time, its meaning narrowed to specifically denote processed wood.
The house was built using sturdy oak timber.
The forest provides high-quality timber for furniture.
"Timber!" he shouted as the tree began to fall.
Ancient ships relied on durable timber for their hulls.
The timber industry plays a key role in the local economy.