What does woodpile mean?
Woodpile is a noun denoting a heap or stack of wood, usually firewood that has been gathered and cut for burning. It commonly refers to an outdoor pile kept near a house, fireplace, or stove and can describe either recently cut branches or prepared firewood. The word is neutral in register and used in both British and American English. Less commonly, especially in informal contexts, it can mean a large amount of money, comparable to phrases such as “a pile of money.” This figurative use may sound somewhat old-fashioned or deliberately colorful rather than neutral. Although “woodpile” normally evokes a practical domestic object, it can also suggest readiness and self-sufficiency, since maintaining a substantial store of firewood suggests preparation for cold weather or prolonged use.
nounA heap or stack of wood, especially firewood gathered for use. By extension, in informal usage, a large amount of money.
- A heap or stack of wood, especially firewood prepared for burning.
- Informally, a large amount of money or other resources.
"They stacked the cut logs in a woodpile beside the shed."
"She carried another armful of branches to the woodpile."
"After the sale, the family had a substantial woodpile of savings."
The regular plural is formed by adding -s.
"Several large woodpiles stood at the edge of the property."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
How woodpile is actually used
The literal sense is neutral and common in British and American English. The figurative sense for a large amount of money is informal and considerably less common than the literal meaning.