sapele

American  

[suh-pee-lee] / səˈpi li /

noun

1. Also called aboudikro.  the mahoganylike wood of any of several African trees of the genus Entandrophragma, used for making furniture.

2. a tree, especially Entandrophragma cylindricum, of the mahogany family, yielding this wood.

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sapele British  

/ səˈpiːlɪ /

noun

1. any of several W African meliaceous trees of the genus Entandrophragma, esp E. cylindricum, yielding a hard timber resembling mahogany

2. the timber obtained from such a tree, used to make furniture

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Etymology

Origin of sapele

First recorded in 1900–05; after Sapele, a port on the Benin River in S Nigeria

Compare meaning

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

• African mahogany vs. sapele

Example Sentences

The floor and wall cladding are made from sapele, a sustainably harvested African wood.

From New York Times • Oct. 7, 2022

Wag & Wood Cheese Slicer: This handsome solid-wood cheese board, in walnut, sapele or maple, is handcrafted in Carnation, with a built-in wire slicer and beeswax finish that makes it part tool, part centerpiece.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 10, 2021

Though custom-clad in dark sapele wood that mimics the richness of mahogany, the place isn’t fancy, but it’s no dive bar either.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 19, 2017

Some headed for the plush couches in the comfortable, contemporary Asian-themed saloon�a restful space graced with sapele mahogany, ebony accents and stunning views.

From Time Magazine Archive

The smooth, quiet ride is appreciated topside, but most important, inside, when you are surrounded by the luxurious interior of satin-finished cherry with sapele and teak accents and classic moldings.

From Time Magazine Archive