# torchwood

/ˈtɔɹtʃwʊd/ (US) · /tˈɔːtʃwʊd/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/torchwood
Updated: 2026-10-13

## Definition

a type of wood that burns very easily and stays lit for a long time, often used to make torches. It usually comes from trees that have a lot of sticky resin inside.

For teachers: Resinous wood, typically from pine or other coniferous trees, that is highly flammable and suitable for use as a torch. Often refers specifically to the heartwood of certain species in the Americas.

## Examples

- He used a piece of torchwood to light the way through the cave.
- The campers gathered dry torchwood from the base of the old pines to ensure the fire would start quickly in the damp air.
- Historically, torchwood served as a vital resource for nocturnal navigation and signaling before the advent of portable lanterns and modern lighting technology.

## Synonyms

fatwood, lightwood

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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.