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Glite Dictionary
scarlet oak

scarlet oak

6.0
A medium to large tree from eastern North America with deeply cut leaves that turn bright red in autumn
  • noun
  • /ˈskɑrlɪt oʊk/
  • US
translation icon : roble escarlata
  • a scarlet oak

Examples

  • We also have a scarlet oak here that still has its leaves.

  • The scarlet oak is known for its vibrant red leaves in autumn.

  • In autumn, the scarlet oak transforms into a stunning display of scarlet foliage.

  • Gardeners often plant scarlet oaks for their beautiful fall color.

Synonyms

oak
vsscarlet oak
126 1.0

A large tree that has leaves with deep cuts and makes acorns

refers to the single deciduous species with striking red autumn leaves
oak tree
vsscarlet oak
34 1.0

A large strong tree with leaves that have deep rounded edges and small nuts called acorns

is a specific eastern species noted for bright scarlet autumn leaves
red oak
vsscarlet oak
  • US
1 4.6

A large North American tree with pointed leaves and red, strong wood used for furniture

names one particular species rather than a group of species
Quercus coccinea
vsscarlet oak
  • Specialized
9.6

A medium to large oak tree with deeply cut leaves that turn bright red in autumn

is the common name while the other is the scientific name

Surface Forms

scarlet oak singular
scarlet oaks plural

Morphology

scarlet + oak

The meaning 'a type of oak tree with bright scarlet foliage' is directly and compositionally derived from 'scarlet' (a bright reddish-orange color) + 'oak' (a tree). This is a descriptive compound noun following common cross-linguistic naming patterns for species, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents can infer the meaning.

Etymology

Scarlet oak is named for the tree's leaves, which turn a strong red in autumn. The word scarlet means 'bright red' and oak is the tree, so the name explains why people use it for this tree.