hardwood

1 of 2

noun

hard·​wood ˈhärd-ˌwu̇d 

1

: the wood of an angiospermous tree as distinguished from that of a coniferous tree

2

: a tree that yields hardwood

3

: a basketball court

hardwood

2 of 2

adjective

1

: having or made of hardwood

hardwood floors

2

: consisting of mature woody tissue

hardwood cuttings

Examples of hardwood in a Sentence

Noun

They used expensive hardwoods for the flooring.

oaks, maples, and other hardwoods

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Meanwhile, hardwood sawtimber, consists of oak and other big trees used in flooring, furniture and pallets. — Kevin Williams, CNBC, 17 Oct. 2026

These stunning wood cutting boards are truly heirloom-worthy, handcrafted by expert woodworkers from sturdy hardwood. — Alaina Chou, Bon Appetit Magazine, 16 Oct. 2026

Adjective

Inside Tom Brady’s Multimillion-Dollar Property Portfolio Expansive living and dining areas with hardwood floors are accessed across the main level, alongside a family room and kitchen with a breakfast area. — Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 14 Oct. 2026

The floors are hardwood, the nine-foot ceilings beamed, the bedroom well detailed, and the city views wide open. — Matthew Sedacca, Curbed, 12 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1686, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1767, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for hardwood

• allgood
• basswood
• beechwood
• bellwood
• birchwood
• boxwood
• boyhood
• brushwood
• childhood
• cordwood
• dogwood
• driftwood

Kids Definition

hardwood

1 of 2 noun

hard·​wood ˈhär-ˌdwu̇d 

1

: the wood of a tree (as an oak or maple) producing flowers and having usually broad leaves as compared to the wood of a tree bearing cones and having needlelike leaves compare softwood sense 1

2

: a tree that yields hardwood

hardwood

2 of 2 adjective

1

: having or made of hardwood

2

: consisting of mature woody tissue

a hardwood cutting