noun
large timber; big piece of wood
Refers to a physically large piece of lumber, often used in construction or woodworking contexts.
この神社の柱には巨材が使われている。
Large timbers are used for the pillars of this shrine.
noun
person of great talent; outstanding figure
Figurative extension of the literal meaning; describes a person of exceptional ability, often in a specific field. Somewhat literary.
彼は学界の巨材として知られている。
He is known as a leading figure in the academic world.