softwood

1 of 2

noun

soft·​wood ˈsȯft-ˌwu̇d 

1

: the wood of a coniferous tree (such as a fir or pine) whether hard or soft as distinguished from that of an angiospermous tree

2

: a tree that yields softwood

softwood

2 of 2

adjective

: having or made of softwood

Examples of softwood in a Sentence

Noun

pines, firs, and other softwoods

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The United States imports 85% of its softwood lumber from Canada and 70% of its gypsum, which is used in drywall, from Mexico. —Nick Rosenberger, Idaho Statesman, 21 Apr. 2025

The 19 Best White Hydrangeas for Your Garden The 12 Best Pruning Shears to Keep Your Garden in Check In early spring, hydrangea produce fresh, slightly pliant new growth known as softwood, which make excellent cuttings for propagating. —Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Apr. 2025

Adjective

The 1862 Homestead Act propelled the popularity of softwood construction. —Anne Quito, Quartz, 26 May 2021

Put it this way: For most softwood trim installation, this nailer is a good choice. —Roy Berendsohn, Popular Mechanics, 19 Oct. 2020

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1809, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1855, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for softwood

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

Kids Definition

softwood

noun

soft·​wood

ˈsȯf-ˌtwu̇d

1

: the wood of a tree (as a pine or fir) that produces cones as compared to that of a tree (as a maple) that is a broad-leaved flowering plant compare hardwood sense 1

2

: a tree that produces softwood