trunk
trunk Lexical Profile
trunk Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The main woody stem of a tree, extending from the roots to the branches.
"The children carved their initials into the thick trunk of the old oak tree."
North American A large, sturdy box with a hinged lid used for storing or transporting personal belongings, or the enclosed space at the rear of an automobile used for carrying luggage.
"We packed our heavy suitcases into the trunk of the car before setting off on the road trip."
The long, muscular, and flexible snout of an elephant, used for grasping objects, breathing, and spraying water.
"The elephant gracefully used its trunk to pluck a cluster of fresh leaves from the high canopy."
• adjective
Denoting the main line or primary channel of a network, communication system, or transportation route.
"The city council approved extensive repairs on the main trunk road connecting the two major commercial districts."
Word Nuance & Usage
When referring to the storage compartment of a car, 'trunk' is standard in North American English, whereas British English uses 'boot'.
• Rhymes for trunk
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old French 'tronc', originating from Latin 'truncus', meaning the stem, stump, or main body of a tree.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.