Definition

1. Noun:
   • A species of coniferous tree: Chamaecyparis lawsoniana is the scientific name for a specific, large evergreen tree native to the coastal regions of the western United States. It is commonly known as the Port Orford cedar or Lawson cypress.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The forest was dominated by towering Chamaecyparis lawsoniana. (The forest was dominated by towering Port Orford cedar trees.)
  • Due to its durable wood, Chamaecyparis lawsoniana has been heavily logged. (Due to its durable wood, the Port Orford cedar has been heavily logged.)
  • Botanists study the ecological role of Chamaecyparis lawsoniana in its native habitat. (Botanists study the ecological role of Lawson cypress in its native habitat.)

Advanced Usage

• In botanical and horticultural contexts: The name is used for precise scientific classification and to distinguish it from other, similar-looking trees like the true cedars () or other cypress species.
  • The correct identification of the specimen was confirmed as Chamaecyparis lawsoniana. (The correct identification of the specimen was confirmed as Lawson cypress.)

Variants and Related Words

• Port Orford cedar (n): The most widely used common name for this tree, especially in forestry and woodworking.
  • The guitar was made from finely crafted Port Orford cedar.
• Lawson cypress (n): Another common name, frequently used in horticulture and gardening for the cultivated varieties of this species.
  • The garden featured a dwarf cultivar of Lawson cypress.
• Cupressaceae (n): The botanical family name (the cypress family) to which this tree belongs.

Synonyms

• Port Orford cedar (n): The primary common name synonym.
• Lawson cypress (n): An alternative common name synonym.
• Oregon cedar (n): A less frequent regional name.

Noun

1. large timber tree of western North America with trunk diameter to 12 feet and height to 200 feet