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tanbark

American  
[tan-bahrk] / ˈtænˌbɑrk /
  1. the bark of the oak, hemlock, etc., bruised and broken by a mill and used especially in tanning hides.

  2. a surface covered with pieces of tanbark, especially a circus ring.


tanbark British  
/ ˈtænˌbɑːk /

noun

  1. Often shortened to: tan.  the bark of certain trees, esp the oak and hemlock, used as a source of tannin

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of tanbark

First recorded in 1790–1800; tan 1 + bark 2

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Pity’s talent, which she seems to make up on the spot, is being able to eat anything, which she proves by picking up a handful of tanbark bits and swallowing them, splinters and all.

From Los Angeles Times

It's sunny and earthbound at once, with scents of wild raspberries and tanbark, with an earthy bottom note — that's the Carignane, announcing itself.

From Los Angeles Times

The audience has faith, and the performers—where would they be without it?—in small fragments, red and white on the tanbark floor.

From Project Gutenberg

Of late this plant has been attracting much notice under the name "canaigre," and it is hoped that it will prove a valuable substitute for tanbark.

From Project Gutenberg

The next best is finely chopped straw or hay, tanbark, etc.

From Project Gutenberg