Timber

Definition

Timber primarily refers to wood prepared for use in building and carpentry.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtɪmbər/
• Respelling: TIM-bur (with "TIM" as in "time" and "bur" as in "burger" without the "g")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈtɪmbə/
• Respelling: TIM-buh (similar to American English, with "TIM" as in "time" and "buh" as a softer version of "bur")

In both dialects, "timber" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "TIM." The main difference lies in the pronunciation of the final syllable, which tends to end in a more pronounced "r" sound in American English, while in British English, the "r" is less pronounced, making the ending softer.

Etymology

The word "timber" derives from the Old English "timbrian," meaning "to build," which is linked to the Proto-Germanic "*timbran," indicative of "building material." Over time, it came to represent wood used for building.

Derivatives

• Timbered
• Timbering
• Timberland
• Timberline
• Timberyard

Synonyms

• Lumber
• Wood
• Plank

Antonyms

• Metal
• Stone
• Plastic

Usage

• "Timber" is commonly associated with the forestry industry, especially in contexts relating to logging, wood processing, and construction.
• The term can also refer to trees that are grown for their wood.

Related Terms

• Forestry
• Sawmill
• Logging
• Woodwork
• Carpentry

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Wood as Building Material: Wood that has been processed, cut, and readied for use in construction and carpentry.
• Example: The old barn was made from locally sourced timber.

• Trees for Wood: Trees grown and harvested specifically for the production of wood.
• Example: The vast timber forests in the north are a major source of income for the country.

• Wooden Beam or Board: A piece of wood, especially one of large dimensions, used in building houses, bridges, etc.
• Example: The timbers supporting the roof have begun to rot and need replacement.