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

Dahlia cages look a little like square tomato cages, but gardeners have been known to use wooden or bamboo stakes, twine, and grid-like netting or mesh to keep these colorful blooms upright. —Alexandra Jones, The Spruce, 6 June 2026

Best cooling sheets Our editors love that these sheets, made from 100% viscose from bamboo, are buttery soft and stand up to time and usage. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 4 June 2026

Rooms have complimentary bamboo bicycles parked outside, and the minibar is restocked daily with non-alcoholic drinks, fresh local oranges, and juice. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 June 2026

Just in time for warmer nights, browse more cooling bedding options below, including a temperature-regulating waffle blanket, an elegant pintuck-style cooling comforter, and a breezy bamboo pick. —Better Homes & Gardens, 3 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Malay bambu

First Known Use

1586, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing bamboo

• bamboo curtain
• bamboo shoots

Rhymes for bamboo

• accrue
• ado
• ainu
• aircrew
• airscrew
• anew
• askew
• baboo
• babu
• beaucoup
• bijou
• breakthrough

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