matchwood

[ mach-wood ]

noun

1. wood suitable for match.
2. splinters ( def 1 ).

matchwood

/ ˈmætʃˌwʊd /

noun

1. wood suitable for making matches
2. splinters or fragments

   the bomb blew the house to matchwood

Word History and Origins

Origin of matchwood¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; match ¹ + wood ¹

Example Sentences

Every one was relieved to hear it; for the turf on the roofs of all the black houses and barns was as dry as matchwood.

From Project Gutenberg

On the rise at the end of the township the flames gleamed as they flared from the wooden building, which burned like matchwood.

From Project Gutenberg

Briefly, from six till two you would have said that the earth was being shivered to matchwood and fine powder.

From Project Gutenberg

If one of the wheels gets into a hole one's box is converted into matchwood.

From Project Gutenberg

If they tried fire in such a gale the place would burn like matchwood.

From Project Gutenberg