bord

noun

ˈbȯ(ə)rd

variants or less commonly board

ˈbō(ə)rd 

ˈbȯ-

plural -s

: a straight road or passageway driven at right angles to the main cleavage of the coal in a coal mine

Word History

Etymology

board entry 1; probably from the former practice of laying boards in mine passageways to form a relatively smooth surface along which the coal was dragged in sledges

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now