softwood

1 of 2

noun

soft·​wood ˈsȯft-ˌwu̇d 

1

: the wood of a coniferous tree (such as a fir or pine) whether hard or soft as distinguished from that of an angiospermous tree

2

: a tree that yields softwood

softwood

2 of 2

adjective

: having or made of softwood

Examples of softwood in a Sentence

Noun

pines, firs, and other softwoods

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

This is especially true for softwoods like cedar or pine. —Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Sep. 2024

Along the way, hikers can look over the cascading Powers Branch gorge and walk under canopies of middle-aged hardwood and softwood forests. —Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 7 Aug. 2024

Adjective

The 1862 Homestead Act propelled the popularity of softwood construction. —Anne Quito, Quartz, 26 May 2021

Put it this way: For most softwood trim installation, this nailer is a good choice. —Roy Berendsohn, Popular Mechanics, 19 Oct. 2020

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1809, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1855, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

softwood

noun

soft·​wood

ˈsȯf-ˌtwu̇d

1

: the wood of a tree (as a pine or fir) that produces cones as compared to that of a tree (as a maple) that is a broad-leaved flowering plant compare hardwood sense 1

2

: a tree that produces softwood