trunk

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B1 — Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun the main stem of a tree; usually covered with bark; the bole is usually the part that is commercially useful for lumber
  2. noun luggage consisting of a large strong case used when traveling or for storage
  3. noun the body excluding the head and neck and limbs

Etymology

From Middle English tronke, trunke, from Old French tronc (“alms box, tree trunk, headless body”), from Latin truncus (“a stock, lopped tree trunk”), from truncus (“cut off, maimed, mutilated”). For the verb, compare French tronquer, and see truncate. Doublet of truncus and tronk.

In classic literature

Synonyms

tree trunk, bole

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