white oak

noun

: any of various oaks (especially Quercus alba of eastern North America) with acorns that mature in one year and leaf veins that never extend beyond the margin of the leaf
also : its hard strong durable wood

Illustration of white oak

Illustration of white oak
  • leaves and acorns

Examples of white oak in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The three-story five-bedroom has high ceilings, white oak herringbone floors, pocket doors, large windows, a chef’s kitchen, and a conservatory with views of Fishkill Creek and Mount Beacon. The Week Us, TheWeek, 17 Aug. 2026 Wherever the water stands in pools, and by the edges of the lakes and bayous, the giant cypress loom aloft, rivaled in size by some of the red gums and white oaks. Paul Schullery, Outdoor Life, 13 Aug. 2026 The rocky clay soil causes the white oaks to grow slowly, which gives the wood a lot of natural sugars and a very tight grain. Karla Walsh, Southern Living, 21 July 2026 Its circular form remains intact, complemented by white oak floors, modern finishes, and a dramatic spiral staircase connecting each level. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 18 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for white oak

Word History

First Known Use

1610, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of white oak was in 1610

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Cite this Entry

“White oak.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/white%20oak. Accessed 23 Aug. 2026.

Kids Definition

white oak

noun
: any of various oaks with acorns that mature in one year
also : the hard, strong wood of a white oak that lasts well and is not easily rotted by water

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