oak
/ouk/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A type of tree: A large, deciduous tree belonging to the genus Quercus, known for its lobed leaves and its fruit, the acorn.
- The wood from this tree: The hard, strong, and durable timber obtained from the oak tree, commonly used in construction, furniture-making, and flooring.
Examples of Usage
- Noun (referring to the tree):
- The old oak in the field provides shade for the cattle.
- Great oaks grow from little acorns.
- Noun (referring to the wood):
- The dining table is made of solid oak.
- They installed beautiful oak flooring throughout the house.
Advanced Usage
- "to sport one's oak": (British, historical/university slang) To close one's outer door (traditionally made of oak) as a sign that one does not wish to be disturbed.
- He was working on his thesis, so he sported his oak all afternoon.
- "Heart of Oak": A traditional term and song praising the strength and endurance of the British Royal Navy's ships and sailors, metaphorically comparing them to oak.
- The anthem "Heart of Oak" is associated with the Royal Navy.
Variants and Related Words
- Oak tree: A more descriptive term for the tree itself.
- We planted an oak tree in the backyard.
- Oaken (adjective, chiefly literary): Made of oak.
- He sat at the oaken table.
- Oak leaf: A leaf from an oak tree.
- The emblem features an oak leaf cluster.
Synonyms
- Timber/Tree: For the material, synonyms include hardwood (though this is a broader category).
- Forest tree: A general term for a large tree found in woods.
Related Phrases
- Royal Oak: Refers to the specific oak tree in which King Charles II of England hid after the Battle of Worcester in 1651, and later became a common name for pubs.
- Let's meet at the Royal Oak pub.
Related Idioms
- "Great oaks from little acorns grow": A proverb meaning that large, successful, or significant things can develop from small, humble beginnings.
- Don't be discouraged by a small start; remember, great oaks from little acorns grow.
Noun
- a deciduous tree of the genus Quercus; has acorns and lobed leaves
- great oaks grow from little acorns
- the hard durable wood of any oak; used especially for furniture and flooring