African mahogany

noun

1. a large tree, Khaya ivorensis, of western Africa, having hard wood resembling true mahogany, widely used in cabinetmaking and boatbuilding.
2. any of several related or similar African hardwood trees.
3. the wood of any of these trees.

African mahogany

noun

1. any of several African trees of the meliaceous genus Khaya, esp K. ivorensis, that have wood similar to that of true mahogany
2. the wood of any of these trees, used for furniture, etc
3. any of various other African woods that resemble true mahogany

Word History and Origins

Origin of African mahogany¹

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

One carving is of African mahogany and is in the shape of a woman.

From Washington Times

The legs of the stunning dining table are African mahogany, with midcentury chairs in rosewood.

From Seattle Times

African mahogany covers the ceiling, which is sloped here and there; indirect lighting casts a glow over the interior, outfitted with a handsome communal table.

From Washington Post

African mahogany covers the ceiling, which is sloped here and there.

From Washington Post

Kennedy was placed in a casket made of African mahogany that Ted Kennedy had selected, which was then covered with a maroon cloth.

From Washington Post