bamboo

noun

bam·​boo (ˌ)bam-ˈbü  ˈbam-ˌbü 

plural bamboos

often attributive

: any of various woody or arborescent grasses (as of the genera Bambusa, Arundinaria, and Dendrocalamus of the subfamily Bambusoideae) of tropical and temperate regions having hollow stems, thick rhizomes, and shoots that are used for food

also : the jointed stem of bamboo used especially for building, furniture, and utensils

Illustration of bamboo

Examples of bamboo in a Sentence

Bamboo grows in the grove near the house.

We cut down some bamboos.

Recent Examples on the Web

At the brand’s spring 2025 show, WWD reported ​​that bamboo collars and metal details were incorporated into jersey halter gowns, inspired by Tom Ford’s 1990s Gucci interpretations of 1970s Halston. —Violet Goldstone, WWD, 29 Oct. 2024

Cozy Earth’s Men’s Bamboo Pajama Joggers mix fashion and comfort in a breathable, soft-to-the-touch bamboo viscose blend. —Dan Koday, Travel + Leisure, 28 Oct. 2024

Made from eco-friendly bamboo, which requires 40% less water than conventional cotton, their underwear is not only soft and breathable but also eco-friendly. —Cassell Ferere, Forbes, 13 Oct. 2024

The oversized sheets are larger than a standard towel, crafted from cotton and the brand’s signature viscose from bamboo. —Maggie Horton, People.com, 12 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Malay bambu

First Known Use

1586, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing bamboo

• bamboo curtain
• bamboo shoots

Kids Definition

bamboo

noun

bam·​boo bam-ˈbü 

plural bamboos

: any of various chiefly tropical tall woody grasses including some with strong hollow stems used for building, furniture, or utensils

also : the strong woody stem of bamboo

bamboo adjective