English Reference

Word

hazel

US/ˈheɪzəɫ/

UK/hˈeɪzəl/

Definitions

01eye colour

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. a greenish-brown or golden-brown colour, usually used to describe someone's eyes.

adj. denoting a variable colour ranging from light brown to golden-green, specifically used in the context of human eye pigmentation.

“He has beautiful hazel eyes that seem to change colour in the sunlight.”

“The portrait captured the subject's striking hazel eyes, which contrasted sharply with the deep mahogany tones of the background.”

Synonyms

greenish-brownamber

02the tree

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. a small tree or bush that grows edible nuts called hazelnuts.

n. any shrub or small tree of the genus Corylus, characterized by its flexible branches and edible nuts.

“We planted a hazel at the bottom of the garden to attract squirrels.”

“The traditional practice of coppicing hazel ensures a sustainable supply of flexible rods for weaving hurdles and garden structures.”

Synonyms

cobnut treefilbert

03the wood

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Technical

n. the wood from a hazel tree, often used for making fences or walking sticks.

n. the timber derived from the hazel tree, valued for its elasticity and strength in traditional crafts.

“The walking stick was carved from a single piece of seasoned hazel.”

“Artisans prefer hazel for basketry because the wood remains remarkably pliable when steamed, allowing for intricate structural designs.”

04the colour

B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun

n. a light brown or yellowish-brown colour.

n. a moderate yellowish-brown to greenish-brown hue.

“The walls were painted a soft hazel to match the autumn leaves outside.”

“The designer selected a palette of hazel and ochre to evoke a rustic, autumnal atmosphere throughout the living space.”

Synonyms

light brownyellow-brown

Real-World Examples

“Police said he is 5-foot-9 and 165 pounds with brown hair and hazel eyes.”
Toronto Sun 14 Sept 2026

Word family

ADJECTIVE

hazel(B2)

Domain

Mining

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference