bamboo

noun

bam·​boo (ˌ)bam-ˈbü  ˈbam-ˌ 

plural bamboos

often attributive

: any of various woody or arborescent grasses (as of the genera Bambusa, Arundinaria, and Dendrocalamus of the subfamily Bambusoideae) of tropical and temperate regions having hollow stems, thick rhizomes, and shoots that are used for food

also : the jointed stem of bamboo used especially for building, furniture, and utensils

Illustration of bamboo

Examples of bamboo in a Sentence

Bamboo grows in the grove near the house.

We cut down some bamboos.

Recent Examples on the Web

This topper features a breathable bamboo rayon cover and a ventilated core—both of which translate to excellent temperature regulation and cool sleep night after night. —Sharon Brandwein, Southern Living, 18 Apr. 2024

If using bamboo skewers, pre-soak the skewers for 30 minutes. —Lynda Balslev, The Mercury News, 15 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Malay bambu

First Known Use

1586, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing bamboo

• bamboo curtain
• bamboo shoots

Kids Definition

bamboo

noun

bam·​boo bam-ˈbü 

plural bamboos

: any of various chiefly tropical tall woody grasses including some with strong hollow stems used for building, furniture, or utensils

also : the strong woody stem of bamboo

bamboo adjective