matchwood

/'mætʃwud/

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Definition of "Matchwood"

Matchwood is a noun that refers to very small pieces or fragments of wood. It can also mean wood that is suitable for making matchsticks. Essentially, it describes wood that has been broken down into tiny splinters or bits.

Usage Instructions

• Context: Use "matchwood" when discussing wood that has been smashed or broken into small pieces, or when talking about wood that can be used for making matches.
• Form: "Matchwood" is an uncountable noun, meaning you typically do not use it in plural form (you would say "some matchwood" instead of "matchwoods").

Examples

1. Basic Example: "After the storm, the old tree was reduced to matchwood."
2. Advanced Example: "The shipwreck left the vessel in pieces, scattered across the rocks like matchwood."

Different Meanings

• Literal Meaning: Refers to small wooden fragments.
• Figurative Meaning: Can describe something that has been completely destroyed or broken down (e.g., "The argument left their relationship in matchwood.")

Synonyms

• Splinters
• Shavings
• Fragments
• Debris

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• "Reduced to matchwood": This phrase can be used to describe something that has been completely destroyed or rendered useless.
  • Example: "The negotiations fell apart, and now their partnership is reduced to matchwood."

Word Variants

• There are no direct variants of the word "matchwood," but related terms include:
  • Match (as in a stick that can ignite)
  • Wood (the material itself)

Summary

"Matchwood" is a useful word when discussing small pieces of wood or when describing something that has been completely broken down.

Academic

Noun

1. fragments of wood
   • it was smashed into matchwood
2. wood suitable for making matchsticks
3. wood in small pieces or splinters
   • the vessel was beaten to matchwood on the rocks

Synonyms

• splinters