poon

American  

[poon] / pun /

noun

1. any of several East Indian trees of the genus Calophyllum, that yield a light, hard wood used for masts, spars, etc.

2. the wood of these trees.

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poon ¹ British  

/ puːn /

noun

1. any of several trees of the SE Asian genus Calophyllum having lightweight hard wood and shiny leathery leaves: family Clusiaceae

2. the wood of any of these trees, used to make masts and spars

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poon ² British  

/ puːn /

noun

1. slang a stupid or ineffectual person

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Etymology

Origin of poon

1690–1700; compare Tamil punnai, pinnai, Malayalam punna names for Calophyllum inophyllum

Example Sentences

The khao poon pla, made with catfish, is particularly rich and comforting.

From New York Times • Mar. 8, 2022

With high teas, poon choi and beyond, here’s how to make this Lunar New Year roar.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 26, 2022

I’d also get the khao poon; it’s a tofu coconut curry.

From Washington Post • Aug. 15, 2019

Within are dozens of merchandise and food vendors, hawking everything from khao poon curry noodle soup to an entire roast duck.

From New York Times • Jul. 6, 2016

Dintangda san dorian ay sin poon; anayan kaotanda ut mapno san tagban Bangan, ya mapno san pataklang Kabigat sin bugas di dorian.

From Kankanay Ceremonies (American Archaeology and Ethnology) by Moss, C. R.