Diospyros
- noun
- /ˌdaɪəˈspɪrəs/
- Specialized
- The black wood of Diospyros, commonly known as ebony, is highly sought after for musical instruments.
- Diospyros virginiana
- Diospyros persimmon
Examples
-
A mask that will have carved permanent detail requires a denser variety such as iroko (Chlorophora excelsa), ebony (Diospyros), or mahogany (Swietenia).
Academic text (1994) -
Many craftsmen prefer Diospyros wood for its attractive grain and strength in construction.
-
And the botanical name of the American p-word is Diospyros virginiana, the first part of which means "fruit we provide enough for those who have too little." (Yeah, same guy.)
Blog text (28) -
Diospyros is known for its beautiful and durable wood, often used in furniture.
Compounds
- Specialized
A tropical tree from southern Asia with very hard, dark wood used for fine furniture and musical instruments
- Specialized
A small Asian tree that produces large orange fruit called persimmons
- Specialized
A large Asian tree that has very hard, striped wood used for furniture
- Specialized
A medium-sized tree that makes orange fruit that becomes sweet when ripe
Surface Forms
Etymology
The word Diospyros comes from Greek parts dios ('divine' or 'of Zeus') and pyros ('fruit'), so it suggests a 'divine fruit'. That's why the name suits trees like the persimmon, which give tasty fruit and also produce beautiful, valuable wood.