bamboo

noun

bam·​boo (ˌ)bam-ˈbü  ˈbam-ˌbü 

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

Bedlore Mattress Topper The mattress topper is constructed using a bamboo fabric mix, which helps with breathability. —Izzy Baskette, PEOPLE, 7 Jan. 2026

Per Sē contrasts the delightfully retro, lipstick-y aroma of orris butter with a fresh, fizzing swell of aldehydes, pink pepper, and bamboo. —Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 6 Jan. 2026

Scoop up a bamboo shoe rack to keep your shoes neat in one place, a rotating makeup organizer to free up space on your vanity, and a sleek storage ottoman that’s perfect for extra throw blankets, books, and more—all under $30. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 6 Jan. 2026

The presence of the birds is a relatively recent development, beginning after a local resident planted bamboo on the site, unintentionally creating the foundation for an urban refuge. —New Atlas, 3 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Malay bambu

First Known Use

1586, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing bamboo

• bamboo curtain
• bamboo shoots

Rhymes for bamboo

• accrue
• ado
• ainu
• aircrew
• airscrew
• anew
• askew
• baboo
• babu
• beaucoup
• bijou
• breakthrough

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