Langimage
English

bole

|bo/le|

C1

🇺🇸

/boʊl/

🇬🇧

/bəʊl/

tree trunk

Etymology
Etymology Information

'bole' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'bole,' which came from Old Norse 'bolr,' meaning 'tree trunk.'

Historical Evolution

'bolr' transformed into the Middle English word 'bole,' and eventually became the modern English word 'bole.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'tree trunk,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the trunk of a tree.

The bole of the ancient oak was thick and gnarled.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a reddish-brown clay used as a pigment.

Artists often use bole to prepare the surface for gilding.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45