Meaning & Definition of word "Timber"

Timber

/ˈtɪmbər/

noun:

  • 1. Wood that is prepared for use in building and carpentry.
    • Example: The construction workers unloaded several tons of timber for the new house.
  • 2. Trees that are grown specifically for timber production.
    • Example: The forest is rich in timber, providing resources for the furniture industry.
  • 3. A sound or quality of sound; the character of a sound.
    • Example: The musician admired the warmth of the timber in her voice.

verb:

  • 1. To furnish with timber; to line or support with timber.
    • Example: They timbered the tunnel to ensure it wouldn't collapse.

Etymology

From Old English 'timber', related to German 'Zimber', meaning 'wood, building material'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

timberland:

land covered with forests, especially those of economically valuable wood.

timber frame:

a building structure consisting of wooden frames.

hit the timber:

to fall down, typically used in contexts involving failure or collapse.

Related Words

lumberjack:

A person who works in the logging industry, cutting down trees.

forestry:

The science of planting and managing forests.

sawmill:

A facility where logs are cut into lumber.

Slang Meanings of timber

Meaning: To fall suddenly.

Example Sentence: He was climbing up the tree when he lost his grip and shouted, 'Timber!'

Meaning: To collapse or fail.

Example Sentence: After the merger fell through, the whole plan went timber.