Trunk - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

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SKIP TO CONTENT trunk /trəŋk/ /trəŋk/ IPA guide

Other forms: trunks

The noun trunk refers to the main stem of a tree. If you want to make maple syrup, you need to tap the trunk of the maple tree and collect the tree's sap, which can then be boiled into a sticky syrup.

The torso of the human body, from the neck to the groin — but not including the head, neck, arms, or legs — is sometimes referred to as the trunk. If you have hives on your trunk, you probably itch on your back, chest and abdomen. The word trunk comes from the Old French word tronc, which referred to the trunk of a tree or a headless body.

Definitions of trunk

noun the main stem of a tree; usually covered with bark; the bole is usually the part that is commercially useful for lumber synonyms: bole, tree trunk see moresee less type of: stalk, stem a slender or elongated structure that supports a plant or fungus or a plant part or plant organ
noun the body excluding the head and neck and limbs synonyms: body, torso see moresee less type of: body part any part of an organism such as an organ or extremity
noun compartment in an automobile that carries luggage or shopping or tools “he put his golf bag in the trunk” synonyms: automobile trunk, luggage compartment see moresee less types: boot British term for the luggage compartment in a car type of: compartment a partitioned section, chamber, or separate room within a larger enclosed area
noun luggage consisting of a large strong case used when traveling or for storage see moresee less types: footlocker, locker a trunk for storing personal possessions; usually kept at the foot of a bed (as in a barracks) type of: baggage, luggage cases used to carry belongings when traveling
noun a long flexible snout as of an elephant synonyms: proboscis see moresee less type of: neb, snout a long projecting or anterior elongation of an animal's head; especially the nose

Pronunciation US /trəŋk/ UK /trəŋk/ Cite this entry Style: MLA

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