cedar: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral to formal, but common in descriptive, architectural, and natural science contexts.
Quick answer
What does “cedar” mean?
An evergreen coniferous tree known for its aromatic, durable wood and needle-like leaves.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An evergreen coniferous tree known for its aromatic, durable wood and needle-like leaves.
The wood from such a tree, prized for its quality and scent; can also refer to a characteristic reddish-brown colour. In some contexts, used as a modifier for similar trees or wood.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major lexical differences. Spelling identical. The tree is native to different regions (e.g., Western Red Cedar more common in North America).
Connotations
Shared connotations of quality, permanence, and a classic, refined nature.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in North American contexts due to native species and use in construction/outdoor furniture.
Grammar
How to Use “cedar” in a Sentence
[Adj] cedarcedar of [place]made of/from cedarlined with cedarVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cedar” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The wardrobe was cedared to protect the woolens. (Rare, technical)
American English
- We'll cedar-line the closet to keep moths out. (Rare, technical)
adverb
British English
- Non-standard; no common adverbial use.
American English
- Non-standard; no common adverbial use.
adjective
British English
- The antique, cedar chest had a distinctive fragrance.
American English
- They built a beautiful cedar deck in the backyard.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In forestry, lumber, and furniture manufacturing (e.g., 'We source sustainable cedar for outdoor decking').
Academic
In botany, ecology, and materials science (e.g., 'The cedars of Lebanon are mentioned in ancient texts').
Everyday
Describing furniture, closets, garden trees, or scent (e.g., 'We bought a cedar chest to store our winter blankets').
Technical
In woodworking, construction, and perfumery (e.g., 'Cedar oil is used as a natural insect repellent').
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cedar”
- Using as a verb ('to cedar' is non-standard). Plural: 'cedars' is correct, not 'cedar' for multiple trees. Confusing 'cedar' with 'cider' in spelling/pronunciation.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is both countable (referring to trees: 'three cedars') and uncountable (referring to the material: 'made of cedar').
Yes, 'cedar' can describe a reddish-brown colour, often used in design contexts (e.g., 'a cedar finish').
They are different genera of conifers. Cedar wood is typically more aromatic, durable, and resistant to rot compared to many pines.
The natural aromatic oils in cedar repel moths and other insects, making it ideal for protecting woollens and other stored fabrics.
An evergreen coniferous tree known for its aromatic, durable wood and needle-like leaves.
Cedar is usually neutral to formal, but common in descriptive, architectural, and natural science contexts. in register.
Cedar: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsiːdə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsiːdɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “True as the cedar (archaic/poetic, implying steadfastness)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Cedar trees are SEEN from AfaR because they are tall and enduring.
Conceptual Metaphor
CEDAR IS DURABILITY / CEDAR IS A PROTECTIVE BARRIER (e.g., 'a cedar-lined closet protects from moths').
Practice
Quiz
What is a primary characteristic of cedar wood that makes it useful for storage?