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Hickory Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hickory

hick-o-ry

🇺🇸 /ˈhɪkɝi/ · 🇬🇧 /hˈɪkəɹˌi/

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

tree type

Hickory refers to a group of deciduous hardwood trees of the genus Carya. These trees are known for their tough wood, which is valued for making tools, furniture, and sporting goods. Hickory nuts, produced by these trees, are also edible and have a rich, sweet flavor. Hickory is often associated with the American South and is a common choice for smoking meats due to its distinct taste. The wood is both dense and strong, making it a preferred choice in construction and woodworking.

Synonyms

Carya, hardwood, hickory tree.

Examples of usage

  • The hickory tree stood tall in the forest.
  • He used hickory wood to smoke the ribs.
  • Hickory nuts are a favorite among local wildlife.
  • We crafted a beautiful piece of furniture from hickory.
  • The baseball bat was made from sturdy hickory.

Translations

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Quick facts about “hickory”

Hickory is a 3-syllable noun (hick-o-ry). It is pronounced /ˈhɪkɝi/ in American English and /hˈɪkəɹˌi/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 1 meaning, 3 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #18,139 among the most common English words.

Origin of 'hickory'

The word 'hickory' originates from the Powhatan Native American word 'puhkwi' or 'puhkoi', which refers to the nut of the hickory tree. The term was adopted into English during the early 17th century and has been used to describe the trees and their nuts ever since. The popularity of hickory expanded as European settlers encountered the species in North America, where it was both a vital food source and a material for various tools and construction. Over time, hickory became an integral part of Southern culture and cuisine, especially for its use in smoking meats. The name has evolved to encompass not just the trees but also the unique flavor profiles associated with hickory, especially in culinary contexts. Today, hickory wood is highly sought after for its strength and utility in woodworking, making it an important natural resource.


Rhymes

Hickory rhymes with trickery and vicary.

See all rhymes →

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,139, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.