# hazel

/ˈheɪzəɫ/ (US) · /hˈeɪzəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hazel
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. eye colour

adjective · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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.

### 2. the tree

noun · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: 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.

### 3. the wood

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

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

For teachers: 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.

### 4. the colour

noun · CEFR B2

a light brown or yellowish-brown colour.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- She has beautiful hazel eyes.
- The artist mixed ochre and green paint to create a hazel background.
- Her hazel eyes shifted from green to brown depending on the light and the color of her clothes.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.