What is the Latin term for "wood"?

The Latin term for "wood" is indeed "lignum." This word specifically refers to the material that makes up the structure of trees and plants, consisting primarily of cellulose and lignin. In botanical contexts, "lignum" is frequently used to discuss hardwood and softwood, as well as the anatomy of trees, where differentiation between types of wood can be important for understanding plant biology.

In contrast, "arbor" translates to "tree" in Latin, emphasizing the entire plant rather than just its wood component. "Silva" means "forest" or "woodland," again referring to a larger ecological concept rather than the specific material. "Fagus," which refers to the beech tree, pertains to a specific genus within the plant kingdom. Thus, while the other terms are related to trees and their environments, "lignum" accurately captures the essence of "wood."