African mahogany

American  

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.

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African mahogany British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of African mahogany

First recorded in 1835–45

Compare meaning

How does african-mahogany compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• African mahogany vs. sapele

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