English Reference

Word

woodlands

Phoneticswood·lands

US/ˈwʊdˌɫændz/

UK/wˈʊdləndz/

Definition

n. an area of land that is covered with trees. It is usually smaller and less dense than a deep forest.

n. land covered with trees and shrubs, typically smaller or less dense than a forest. Often used in the plural to refer to a specific geographic area or habitat type.

Examples

“We went for a long walk through the local woodlands.”

“The government is working to protect ancient woodlands from being cleared for new housing developments.”

“Restoring these degraded woodlands is essential for maintaining local biodiversity, as they provide a unique canopy structure that supports various bird and insect species.”

Examples

simple

“We went for a long walk through the local woodlands.”

contextual

“The government is working to protect ancient woodlands from being cleared for new housing developments.”

complex

“Restoring these degraded woodlands is essential for maintaining local biodiversity, as they provide a unique canopy structure that supports various bird and insect species.”

Usage

While 'woodland' can be uncountable, the plural form 'woodlands' is more common when referring to a specific region or ecological area.

Real-World Examples

“For nearly a century, the ungulates have roamed the land’s waterfronts and woodlands, so comfortable around humans that it is not uncommon to spot deer roaming downtown Avalon.”
The Guardian · 3 Sept 2026
“The fourth move RSPB Scotland plans is the introduction of more broadleaved trees in its woodlands.”
BBC News · 25 Aug 2026

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency
Frequent
Updated

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/woodlands

English Reference