hardwood

1 of 2

noun

hard·​wood ˈhärd-ˌwu̇d How to pronounce hardwood (audio)
1
: the wood of an angiospermous tree as distinguished from that of a coniferous tree
2
: a tree that yields hardwood
3
: a basketball court

hardwood

2 of 2

adjective

1
: having or made of hardwood
hardwood floors
2
: consisting of mature woody tissue
hardwood cuttings

Examples of hardwood in a Sentence

Noun They used expensive hardwoods for the flooring. oaks, maples, and other hardwoods
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Roughly 2,700 square feet across two levels showcases a vintage country house aesthetic paired with dark hardwood flooring and antique light fixtures throughout. — Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 2 Sep. 2026 These include styles made of hardwood and kiln-fired frames as well as easy-to-clean upholstery and covers. — Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 1 Sep. 2026
Adjective
The convertible sofa bed boasts high-density foam cushions and a hardwood frame to help maintain durability and longevity. — Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 1 Sep. 2026 Hardwood Floors Like real wooden furniture, real hardwood floors aren’t be cleaned as frequently either. — Ashlyn Needham, The Spruce, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hardwood

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1686, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1767, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hardwood was in 1686

Rhymes for hardwood

See All Rhymes for hardwood

Browse Nearby Words

hard-won
hardwood
hard-wooded
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hardwood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hardwood. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

hardwood

1 of 2 noun
hard·​wood ˈhär-ˌdwu̇d How to pronounce hardwood (audio)
1
: the wood of a tree (as an oak or maple) producing flowers and having usually broad leaves as compared to the wood of a tree bearing cones and having needlelike leaves compare softwood sense 1
2
: a tree that yields hardwood

hardwood

2 of 2 adjective
1
: having or made of hardwood
2
: consisting of mature woody tissue
a hardwood cutting

More from Merriam-Webster on hardwood

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about hardwood

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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