Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈiːn tˈɪmbə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "green timber" can be confusing due to its irregularity. The "ee" in "green" is pronounced as /i/, while the "i" in "timber" is pronounced as /ɪ/. This means that although both words contain the letter "e", they are pronounced differently. Additionally, the "mb" combination in "timber" is silent, making the word sound like /ˈtɪm.bər/. When written in IPA, the word is transcribed as /ɡriːn ˈtɪm.bər/.
Green timber refers to wood that has been recently felled from living trees and has not yet undergone the process of drying or seasoning. It is characterized by its high moisture content, usually above the fiber saturation point, which is when the wood cell walls are saturated with water.
The term "green" in this context does not refer to the color of the timber, but rather to its state of freshness or lack of dryness. Green timber is typically soft and pliable, and it may twist, shrink, or crack as it dries due to the release of moisture. Therefore, it is considered unsuitable for immediate use in construction or woodworking projects that require dimensional stability.
Before green timber is used, it must undergo the process of seasoning, which involves drying the wood to reduce its moisture content to an appropriate level. This can be done through air drying, where the timber is left exposed to natural air circulation, or through kiln drying, which involves placing the timber in a controlled environment where temperature and humidity are carefully regulated. The purpose of seasoning is to improve the durability, strength, and workability of the timber, making it more suitable for various applications.
Green timber is commonly used in industries such as forestry, sawmilling, and woodworking, where it serves as the raw material for producing lumber, timber products, furniture, and other wooden goods.
The term "green timber" can be broken down into its two components: "green" and "timber".
The word "green" originates from the Old English word "graeg" or "grēne", which referred to the color green. Over time, it evolved to its current form in Middle English. In this context, "green" refers to something that is not yet mature or fully dried, still having its natural moisture content, as is the case with fresh vegetation.
The word "timber" comes from the Old English word "timbrian", meaning to construct or build. It is related to the Old Norse word "timbr" and the Middle Low German word "timmer". The term "timber" refers to wood that has been cut and prepared for use in construction, carpentry, or other applicable purposes.
