bough

noun

ˈbau̇ How to pronounce bough (audio)
Definition of boughnext
as in branch
a major outgrowth from the main stem of a woody plant a tree bough fell on my car during the windstorm

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of bough The day was otherwise cheerful; sunshine dappled through evergreen boughs. — Scott Eden, Rolling Stone, 1 Feb. 2026 Spray the underside of the branches, focusing on the cut ends of the boughs, Hunter says, because that’s where the moisture can be absorbed the fastest. — Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Dec. 2025 For example, forest scents have long been synonymous with winter and its holiday traditions, as Christmas trees, wreaths, and pine boughs signal calm and comfort during a season of rest. — Paul Nicolaus, Outside, 22 Nov. 2025 Saturnalia, in honor of the sun god, Saturn, included decorating homes with evergreen boughs, wreaths and garlands to symbolize renewal. — Scott Neuman, NPR, 17 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for bough
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bough
  1. branch
  2. limb
Noun
  • Since Independence Day is a federal holiday, most branches of national banks such as Bank of America, Wells Fargo and CitiBank, among others, will be closed on July 4.
    — Gabe Hauari, USA Today, 2 July 2026
  • Each branch was designed to check the power of the others because the Founders did not want to rely only on the voters to check government power.
    — Steve H. Hanke, Fortune, 1 July 2026
Definition of branch
Noun
  • Or gawky characters, all angular bone structures and willowy limbs?
    — Max Berlinger, Vogue, 3 July 2026
  • Deirdre massaged my limbs while the cups went to work on my perpetually achy upper back.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 July 2026
Definition of limb

Browse Nearby Words

bottoms
bough
boughs
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Cite this Entry

“Bough.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bough. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on bough

Nglish: Translation of bough for Spanish Speakers

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