bamboo (2009-10-09)

Part of Speech: noun

Pronunciation: [băm-bū']

Definition: Any of a number of semitropical or tropical grasses (subfamily Bambusoideae) often resembling trees, with perennial, jointed stems that are woody, hard, springy, and often hollow and sometimes grow to a height of c. 36 m (c. 120 feet): the stems are used in light construction and for furniture, canes, etc., and the young shoots of some species are eaten.

Usage: Pandas eat bamboo almost exclusively; however, they consume many different varieties of this fast-growing plant.

Suggested Usage: Bamboo is a species of grass, commonly used to make fabrics and building materials.

Etymology: Malay bambu < ? a Dravidian language.