noun

trunk

TRUNGK/trʌŋk/

A main supporting stem from which branches extend.

The oak's thick trunk rises from its roots to the first branches.

A mature oak shown with trunk as dominant central feature, visible thick main stem rising from roots into first branches, small leafy crown; isolated tree vignette.

Etymology

trunkLatintree stem; torso; wooden block

Latin truncus named both a tree's main stem and the body's torso. The torso likely suggested a case containing organs, leading to the box sense that underlies the car's luggage compartment.

In context

DTD History Radio1:27

75% of the mass of a mature baobab trunk is water storage. The wood exists to hold liquid. That is its primary biological function.

This Tree Stores 1,000 Gallons Of Water In Its Trunk — Why Don't Survivalists Plant It?

More examples

Rough bark covers the trunks of these old trees.
She gently twists her trunk to stretch her back.
Several smaller phone lines connect to one trunk line.

Forms

trunk · trunks

Similar words

stem: A broader term for plant supports, whether woody or soft.
stalk: Usually a slender plant support rather than a thick, woody trunk.