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 Laying the boughs over perennial beds for the winter to afford them protection from cold and wind. — David Beaulieu, The Spruce, 8 Jan. 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 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 Gleaming in the boughs were pearlescent apples. — Bailey Richards, PEOPLE, 11 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for bough
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bough
  1. branch
  2. limb
Noun
  • In previous comments to the Washington Examiner, veteran Democratic strategist James Carville asserted Democrats will take back both branches of Congress.
    — Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 19 Aug. 2026
  • Walton Johnson, who began at the clerk of courts office overseeing its online Self-Help Center, pledged to install kiosks at the Orange County Courthouse and its surrounding branches to cut down on wait times.
    — Cristóbal Reyes, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of branch
Noun
  • Public health staff said people over 50 and residents with health problems are at a greater risk of serious illnesses, including meningitis, encephalitis and limb paralysis.
    — Matthew Rodriguez, CBS News, 21 Aug. 2026
  • Here, Varghese coordinates their physical therapy, builds their braces, fabricates their prostheses, and operates on their limbs, should things come to that.
    — Eli Cahan, Rolling Stone, 21 Aug. 2026
Definition of limb

Browse Nearby Words

bottoms
bough
boughs
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bough.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bough. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on bough

Nglish: Translation of bough for Spanish Speakers

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