Usage Note
Molabe is the molave tree (Vitex parviflora), one of the most prized hardwoods in the Philippines for its exceptional durability and resistance to termites. It has deep symbolic significance in national culture, famously invoked in José Rizal's last prose piece addressed to Philippine youth.
Examples
" Matibay ang kahoy na molabe. "
Natural Translation
Molave wood is strong.
Literal Translation
Strong the wood that molave.
" Ang mga antigong kasangkapan sa aming bahay ay yari sa matibay na molabe. "
Natural Translation
The antique furniture in our house is made of strong molave wood.
Literal Translation
The plural antique furniture in our house is made of strong that molave.
" Pinili namin ang molabe para sa hagdanan dahil alam naming hindi ito kakainin ng anay kahit lumipas ang mga taon. "
Natural Translation
We chose molave for the staircase because we know termites will not eat it even as the years pass.
Literal Translation
Chose we the molave for the staircase because know we-that not this will-be-eaten by termite even pass the plural year.
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