gopherwood: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Extremely RareBiblical / Literary / Technical (Botany)
Quick answer
What does “gopherwood” mean?
The wood of the gopher tree, traditionally understood from biblical references as the material used to build Noah's Ark.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The wood of the gopher tree, traditionally understood from biblical references as the material used to build Noah's Ark.
A term used to refer to the unidentified wood or tree species mentioned in the Bible (Genesis 6:14). In modern botany, it is sometimes associated with specific tree species like the yellowwood (Cladrastis kentukea) or cypress.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences. Usage is identical and equally rare in both varieties.
Connotations
Carries strong biblical, historical, or antiquarian connotations.
Frequency
Equally obscure in both UK and US English.
Grammar
How to Use “gopherwood” in a Sentence
[be] made of gopherwoodbuild [object] from gopherwoodVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gopherwood” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The gopherwood beams were a subject of the archaeological report.
American English
- They studied the gopherwood samples from the ancient site.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in theological, historical, or botanical discussions regarding biblical texts and ancient materials.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
May appear in specialized literature on dendrology or archaeology discussing ancient wood types.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gopherwood”
- Pronouncing it as /ˈɡɒfəwʊd/ (like 'golf' without the 'l').
- Using it as a common noun for any wood.
- Spelling as 'gofferwood'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is the type of wood mentioned in the Bible (Genesis 6:14) used by Noah to build the Ark. Its exact botanical identity is unknown.
The name 'gopherwood' comes from the Bible. While no tree is scientifically named 'gopherwood' today, scholars have proposed it may refer to a known species like cypress, cedar, or yellowwood.
No, because 'gopherwood' is not a commercially available, specifically identified timber. Lumberyards do not sell wood under this name.
It is a technical, historical term from a single ancient text. It has no application in modern daily life, industry, or conversation outside of specific academic or religious discussions.
The wood of the gopher tree, traditionally understood from biblical references as the material used to build Noah's Ark.
Gopherwood is usually biblical / literary / technical (botany) in register.
Gopherwood: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡəʊfəwʊd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡoʊfərwʊd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'GO for the WOOD' that Noah used for his Ark - Gopherwood.
Conceptual Metaphor
A METAPHOR FOR SOMETHING MYSTERIOUS OR OF UNKNOWN ORIGIN: 'The recipe was as elusive as gopherwood.'
Practice
Quiz
In what context is the word 'gopherwood' primarily used?