board
Old Englishplank, table, to provide meals
About This Root
From Old English bord (plank, table), from Proto-Germanic *burdam. The meaning evolved from plank to table to meals served at a table — hence 'room and board'. Modern compounds span surfaces (blackboard, keyboard, skateboard), entry (aboard, boarding), and governance (boardroom, board of directors — people who met 'at the table').
Associated Words · 7
board
To step or climb onto or otherwise enter a ship, aircraft, train or other conveyance; A relatively long, wide and thin piece of any material, usually wood or similar, often for use in construction or furniture-making
aboard
On or into a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle
keyboard
A set of keys for operating a computer or musical instrument; to type on a keyboard
blackboard
A large dark surface written on with chalk
springboard
A flexible diving board; a starting point for action or growth
skateboard
A wheeled board for riding; to ride such a board
boardinghouse
A private house offering paid accommodation and meals