Pronunciation: [tɛktˈə͡ʊnə] (IPA) 
The word "tectona" is spelled with the letters t-e-c-t-o-n-a. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled as /tɛkˈtoʊnə/. The stressed syllable is the second one, which is pronounced as "tek". The first syllable, "te", is pronounced with a short e sound, while the last syllable, "na", is pronounced as "nuh". The word "tectona" refers to a genus of tropical hardwood trees commonly used for construction and furniture-making.
Tectona is a noun that refers to a genus of trees within the family Lamiaceae, native to Southeast Asia and commonly known as teak trees. This term is derived from the Latin name for teak, Tectona grandis. Teak trees are renowned for their exceptional durability, strength, and beauty, making them highly valuable in the timber industry and sought-after for various applications worldwide.
Tectona trees are characterized by their large size, reaching heights of up to 40 meters (130 feet) and having a diameter of 1-1.5 meters (3-5 feet). They feature dense, deciduous foliage with leathery, elliptical leaves that are approximately 15-45 centimeters (6-18 inches) long. The bark of mature teak trees is grayish-brown and rough in texture.
The wood of Tectona trees is known for its high natural oil content, which contributes to its impressive resistance against rotting, insect damage, and weathering. This exceptional durability makes teak wood desirable for outdoor furniture, boat building, flooring, and other applications that require resistance to moisture and decay. Furthermore, the attractive golden-brown hue of teak wood, along with its straight grain and smooth texture, also enhances its appeal in various indoor settings.
Due to its durability, beauty, and versatility, Tectona wood has been highly prized for centuries across different cultures and civilizations. However, unsustainable logging practices and illegal harvesting pose significant threats to teak tree populations, leading to conservation efforts and regulations to ensure the long-term sustainability of this remarkable genus in its natural habitats.
The word "tectona" is derived from the Latin name of a specific species of tree, Tectona grandis, commonly known as teak. The etymology of "tectona" traces back to the Ancient Greek word "tékton", which means carpenter or builder. This Greek term eventually transitioned into Latin as "tectonus", which referred to someone skilled in carpentry. From "tectonus", the term evolved further into "tectona", which specifically designated the teak tree, known for its durability and usefulness in construction and woodworking.
