Definition

1. Noun:
   • A tree species native to East India: "Indian rosewood" refers specifically to Dalbergia latifolia, a tree valued for its timber.
   • The dark, purplish wood from this tree: The term also denotes the hard, durable, and often decorative wood obtained from this tree, used in high-quality furniture and veneers.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The cabinet was crafted from genuine Indian rosewood.
  • Indian rosewood is prized for its rich color and grain.
  • The forest contains several mature Indian rosewood trees.

Advanced Usage

• As a modifier: The term can be used attributively to describe objects made from this wood.
  • He admired the Indian rosewood veneer on the antique table.
  • The market for Indian rosewood products is highly regulated due to conservation concerns.

Variants and Related Words

• Dalbergia latifolia (n): The scientific (Latin) name for the Indian rosewood tree.
• Rosewood (n): A broader category of dense, dark-veined hardwood from various species, which includes Indian rosewood.
• Bombay blackwood (n): Another common name for Indian rosewood.

Synonyms

• East Indian rosewood: A synonym emphasizing the geographic origin.
• Sonokeling (n): A regional name used in Indonesia for this timber.

Notes on Meaning

• Botanical vs. Commercial Meaning: Primarily, "Indian rosewood" refers to the tree species. In commerce and craftsmanship, it almost exclusively refers to the valuable timber harvested from it.
• Conservation Status: Due to overharvesting, Indian rosewood is listed in CITES Appendix II, regulating its international trade. This context is often part of modern usage discussions.

Noun

1. East Indian tree having a useful dark purple wood