arbor

/ˈɑrbər/

/ˈɑbə/

Other forms: arbors

An arbor is a garden structure on which plants and vines can grow. Sitting under an arbor can help you cool off when you're strolling through a garden on a hot, sunny day.

You may have come across the word arbor in the context of a garden structure, like a trellis or pergola. However, if you've heard of the holiday known as "Arbor Day," you know that an arbor is also a tree. These two meanings come from two different roots: the wooden arch type of arbor comes from the Latin herba, "grass or herb," while the tree arbor comes directly from the Latin arbor. Simply enough, it means "tree."

Definitions of arbor

1. noun

   a framework that supports climbing plants
   “the arbor provided a shady resting place in the park”

   synonyms: arbour, bower, pergola

   types:

   grape arbor, grape arbour

   an arbor where grapes are grown

   type of:

   framework

   a structure supporting or containing something
2. noun

   any of various rotating shafts that serve as axes for larger rotating parts
   synonyms: mandrel, mandril, spindle

   type of:

   rotating shaft, shaft

   a revolving rod that transmits power or motion
3. noun

   tree (as opposed to shrub)
   type of:

   tree

   a tall perennial woody plant having a main trunk and branches forming a distinct elevated crown; includes both gymnosperms and angiosperms