A hard, durable tropical hardwood tree (Tectona grandis) or its golden-brown timber, highly prized for shipbuilding and outdoor furniture.
From Malayalam tekka, through Portuguese teca. The word entered English in the 17th century as European traders encountered this valuable timber in South Asian forests.
Teak contains natural oils that make it almost impervious to water, insects, and rot - so much so that teak ships from centuries ago are still being salvaged for their perfectly preserved timber. The wood actually improves with age, developing a beautiful silver patina when left untreated.
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