as in branches
a major outgrowth from the main stem of a woody plant
a tree bough fell on my car during the windstorm
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of boughs
Laying the boughs over perennial beds for the winter to afford them protection from cold and wind.
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David Beaulieu, The Spruce, 8 Jan. 2026
Spray the underside of the branches, focusing on the cut ends of the boughs, Hunter says, because that’s where the moisture can be absorbed the fastest.
—Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Dec. 2025
Saturnalia, in honor of the sun god, Saturn, included decorating homes with evergreen boughs, wreaths and garlands to symbolize renewal.
—Scott Neuman, NPR, 17 Dec. 2025
Gleaming in the boughs were pearlescent apples.
—Bailey Richards, PEOPLE, 11 Dec. 2025
For example, forest scents have long been synonymous with winter and its holiday traditions, as Christmas trees, wreaths, and pine boughs signal calm and comfort during a season of rest.
—Paul Nicolaus, Outside, 22 Nov. 2025
All the snow resting on their upper boughs began to melt in big wet drops, soaking the dry earth below.
—Hazlitt, 19 Nov. 2025
Use a burlap screen or evergreen boughs to provide protection until spring.
—Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 30 Oct. 2025
The space features fragrant evergreen boughs, which Rucci said are supposed to give the illusion of the Northwoods creeping into the alcove.
—Angelika Ytuarte, jsonline.com, 23 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for boughs
Noun
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How to prepare before strong winds approach Trim tree branches away from your house and power lines.—
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Steinfeld also included a picture of her Christmas tree, which featured a butter yellow onesie nestled on the branches.—
Noun
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Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.—
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Since then, the lineup has expanded to include Barbies who are blind, use wheelchairs, have Down syndrome, have prosthetic limbs, have vitiligo, or wear hearing aids.—
Cite this Entry
“Boughs.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/boughs. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.
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