basswood

[ bas-wood ]

noun

1. any tree of the genus Tilia, especially T. americana, the American linden, having drooping branches and large, toothed, ovate leaves.
2. the wood of a linden.

basswood

/ ˈbæsˌwʊd /

noun

1. any of several North American linden trees, esp Tilia americana Sometimes shortened tobass
2. the soft light-coloured wood of any of these trees, used for furniture

Word History and Origins

Origin of basswood¹

An Americanism dating back to 1660–70; bass ³ + wood ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of basswood¹

C19: from bass ³; see bast

Example Sentences

From the basswood, he made a strong harness for the dogs, so that they could draw the load of game back to the camp for him.

From Project Gutenberg

The blades, Fig. 3, are made of thin basswood or hard maple, and each is fastened in its place by means of two 3/8-in.

From Project Gutenberg

All structural timbers and poles were fastened by tying with ropes of raw hide or of basswood or elm fiber.

From Project Gutenberg

We would cut the basswood chunks about a foot long as it was a very straight wood, soft and wonderful to split for kindling.

From Project Gutenberg

Finally he swam underneath the flock, caught several by the feet, and tied them to his belt with withes of basswood bark.

From Project Gutenberg