majagua

noun

ma·​ja·​gua
variants or mahagua
məˈhägwə
plural -s
: either of two malvaceous trees that are often considered variant forms of a single species:
a
: an irregularly spreading or shrubby tree (Hibiscus tiliaceus) that is widely distributed along tropical shores, yields a light tough wood used especially for canoe outriggers and a fibrous bast used for cordage and caulking, and is often cultivated for ornament or for its useful products

called also balibago, purau

b
: an erect forest tree (H. elatus) of the West Indian uplands yielding a moderately dense timber with the heartwood variegated in purple, metallic blue, and olive that is in demand especially for cabinetwork and gunstocks

called also blue mahoe

Word History

Etymology

American Spanish (also, demajagua, damajagua), from Taino

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Dictionary Entries Near majagua

Cite this Entry

“Majagua.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/majagua. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

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