n. a layered building material made of bamboo. Subjects:
English, Architecture
Editorial Note: This word is a trade name of a product manufactured by Smith & Fong; however, it appears to be quickly becoming generified. Etymological Note: plywood + bamboo
Citations:
1995 Timothy O. Bakke Home Mechanix (July 1) “Walking on bamboo; interior storm windows” vol. 91, no. 797, p. 80: Smith & Fong, a California-based company, has developed a tongue-and-groove flooring product made from bamboo. Called Plyboo ($5 per sq. ft.), the flooring is attractive, wears well and can be sanded and refinished. 1996 Tom Neven Washington Post (Apr. 4) “For a Hardwood Floor, Plyboo Is One Tough Grass” p. T5: The bamboo used to make plyboo is grown in managed forests in China, so there is no impact on wild stands used by pandas as food. 2004 David Lidsky Fast Company (Nov.) “Fast Forward 2005” no. 88, p. 69: Based on a steel frame, her homes use plyboo (a bamboo product) and plastic instead of plywood and glass.