spruce
A spruce tree or plant is usually thin and not very big, often growing in cold places. It's also an adjective used to describe something that's neat, well-organized, or tidy.
You might have seen pictures of a Christmas tree made from one type of evergreen tree called the spruce. But even without a festive context, you can use the word "spruce" in everyday conversations. For example, someone might say their house was a bit cluttered and they decided to spruce it up with some cleaning or new decorations. The idea is that something becomes more attractive or enjoyable after being made neater or improved.
How common is "spruce"?
It appears most frequently in magazine texts and less often in other writings.
noun
Any of various large coniferous evergreen trees or shrubs from the genus Picea, found in northern temperate and boreal regions; originally and more fully spruce fir.
verb
(usually with up) To arrange neatly; tidy up.
adjective
Smart, trim, and elegant in appearance; fastidious (said of a person).
Real examples of "spruce" in context
