snakewood

[ sneyk-wood ]

noun

1. the heavy, dark-red wood of a South American tree, Piratinera guianensis, used for decorative veneers, musical instrument bows, etc.
2. the tree that is the source of this wood.

Word History and Origins

Origin of snakewood¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; snake + wood ¹

Example Sentences

He was well, but neatly, dressed, and had hooked to his wrist a thin snakewood cane attached to a crook handle.

From Project Gutenberg

So he swung round his cane of heavy snakewood at the cow, and struck her poor horns so sharply that her head went round.

From Project Gutenberg

With the single exception of snakewood it is the heaviest wood for rod making and is only used for short bait-casting rods.

From Project Gutenberg

Several species of Strychnos are considered infallible remedies for snake bites; hence are known as snakewood.

From Project Gutenberg