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Bamboo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bamboo

[bæmˈbuː ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

plant material

Bamboo is a fast-growing grass species known for its tall, woody stems. It belongs to the subfamily Bambusoideae within the family Poaceae. Bamboo is notable for its strength and versatility, making it a popular material for construction, textiles, and crafts. Its ability to quickly regenerate after harvesting contributes to its sustainability as a resource. In many cultures, bamboo symbolizes resilience and flexibility.

Synonyms

cane, grass, reed.

Examples of usage

  • He built a fence out of bamboo.
  • Bamboo shoots are a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine.
  • They used bamboo to make a flute.
  • Bamboo is often used in eco-friendly architecture.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In Asian cultures, bamboo symbolizes strength and flexibility, representing the ability to withstand hardships.
  • Bamboo is integral to many traditional crafts, from making musical instruments to creating intricate art and decorations.
  • In Japan, bamboo is often featured in gardens and is associated with good fortune and resilience.

Science

  • Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth, capable of growing up to 91 cm (35 inches) in a single day under optimal conditions.
  • Its unique structure allows it to be extremely lightweight yet strong, making it ideal for construction and furniture.
  • The plant's hollow stem structure contributes to its impressive strength and flexibility.

Ecology

  • Bamboo forests are important for wildlife, providing habitats for many species, including endangered ones like the giant panda.
  • These forests can absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide, aiding in climate change mitigation and contributing to air quality.
  • Bamboo is also known for its rapid regeneration; when cut, it can regrow quickly without needing to be replanted.

Architecture and Design

  • Modern architects often use bamboo in sustainable buildings due to its eco-friendly properties and strength.
  • It has become a popular material in furniture design, offering a unique aesthetic with durability.
  • The innovative use of bamboo in construction has gained global attention, showcasing its versatility as a building material.

Origin of 'bamboo'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'bamboo' comes from the Dutch word 'bamboes', which was adopted from the Malay word 'bambu'.
  • It's believed that the term has origins in multiple Asian languages, showcasing its wide cultural significance.
  • Bamboo has been in use for thousands of years, with documentation tracing back to ancient China and India.

The word 'bamboo' has its origins in the 16th century, derived from the Portuguese term 'bambu', which was borrowed from the Malay word 'bambu'. The Malay word likely comes from the various languages of the region that refer to this grass. Before European encounters, bamboo was known in Asia as a crucial material in agriculture, construction, and as a food source. Its rapid growth and resilience made it a staple in various cultures, especially in China and India, where it is deeply embedded in the cultural and practical aspects of life. The plant has been used not only for structural purposes but also in traditional crafts, culinary dishes, and even in medicine. As trade expanded, the word and its significance spread globally, leading to its current usage and understanding in modern English.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,378, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.