boxwood

noun

box·​wood ˈbäks-ˌwu̇d How to pronounce boxwood (audio)
1
: the close-grained heavy hard tough wood of the box (genus Buxus)
also : a wood of similar properties
2
: a tree producing boxwood

Examples of boxwood in a Sentence

We planted a few boxwoods.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
When the weather cooperates, book an al fresco table among the pagoda trees and boxwoods of the lush garden that feels light years away from the city. — Jaclyn Degiorgio, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Oct. 2026 Preserved Boxwood Garland Another boxwood option, this time as garland. — Danielle Bouchard, Martha Stewart, 14 Oct. 2026 Deutsch, an avid gardener, worked with Manscapers on the landscape design and opted for boxwoods, more evergreens and hydrangeas to frame each space of the outdoor area. — Matt Goulet, Architectural Digest, 22 Sep. 2026 Plants that cause deer to steer clear include boxwood, marigolds, and ornamental onions. — Barbara Gillette, The Spruce, 9 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for boxwood

Word History

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of boxwood was in 1601

Rhymes for boxwood

See All Rhymes for boxwood

Browse Nearby Words

box white oak
boxwood
boxwood leaf miner
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Boxwood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/boxwood. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

boxwood

noun
box·​wood ˈbäk-ˌswu̇d How to pronounce boxwood (audio)
: the tough hard wood of the box
also : the box tree

More from Merriam-Webster on boxwood

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about boxwood

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