A type of lightweight wood from an African tree (Ochna serrulata), used for boat-building and other fine woodwork.
From African language sources, likely reflecting Bantu or other sub-Saharan languages where the tree is native. The term entered English through colonial timber trade vocabulary.
Ambach wood was prized by boat-builders because it's incredibly light yet strong—exactly what you need for vessels that must float high and move fast, making it a treasure worth naming across language barriers.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.