1.
a. The main woody axis of a tree. b. Architecture. The shaft of a column.
2. a. The body of a human being or an animal excluding the head and limbs. b. The thorax of an insect.
3. A proboscis, especially the long prehensile proboscis of an elephant.
4. a. A main body, apart from tributaries or appendages. b. The main stem of a blood vessel or nerve apart from the branches.
5. A trunk line.
6. A chute or conduit.
7. Nautical. a. A shaft connecting two or more decks. b. The housing for the centerboard of a vessel.
8. Nautical. Any of certain structures projecting above part of a main deck, as: a. A covering over the hatches of a ship. b. An expansion chamber on a tanker. c. A cabin on a small boat.
9. a. A covered compartment for luggage and storage, generally at the rear of an automobile. b. A large packing case or box that clasps shut, used as luggage or for storage.
10. trunks Shorts worn for swimming or other athletics.