palm

A2 · Elementary Countable noun

n. a tall tree that grows in hot countries and has long leaves at the top.

n. any of various evergreen trees of the family Arecaceae, typically characterized by an unbranched trunk and a crown of large pinnate or palmate leaves.

“We sat under a palm tree on the beach to get some shade.”

“The coastline was fringed with towering palms that swayed rhythmically in the humid tropical breeze.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Literary

n. a leaf from a palm tree used as a symbol of winning or success.

n. a branch or leaf of the palm tree used historically as a symbol of triumph, excellence, or rejoicing.

“In the old story, the hero was awarded a palm for his bravery.”

“The victorious general was greeted with palms and hymns as he entered the city gates after the long campaign.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Sports

v. to pick up or hold something using only the palm of your hand.

v. to grasp or lift an object using the palm, often without wrapping the fingers entirely around it.

“The basketball player was tall enough to palm the ball with one hand.”

“He managed to palm the heavy stone sphere, lifting it just high enough to clear the pedestal.”