Trunk \Trunk\, n. [F. tronc, L. truncus, fr. truncus maimed,
mutilated; perhaps akin to torquere to twist wrench, and E.
torture. Trunk in the sense of proboscis is fr. F. trompe
(the same word as trompe a trumpet), but has been confused in
English with trunk the stem of a tree (see Trump a
trumpet). Cf. Truncate.]
1. The stem, or body, of a tree, apart from its limbs and
roots; the main stem, without the branches; stock; stalk.
About the mossy trunk I wound me soon, For, high
from ground, the branches would require Thy utmost
reach. --Milton.
2. The body of an animal, apart from the head and limbs.
3. The main body of anything; as, the trunk of a vein or of
an artery, as distinct from the branches.
4. (Arch) That part of a pilaster which is between the base
and the capital, corresponding to the shaft of a column.
5. (Zo["o]l.) That segment of the body of an insect which is
between the head and abdomen, and bears the wings and
legs; the thorax; the truncus.
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
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