alder

noun

al·​der ˈȯl-dər How to pronounce alder (audio)
: any of a genus (Alnus) of toothed-leaved trees or shrubs of the birch family that have catkins which become woody, that typically grow in cool moist ground, and that have wood used especially in turnery
also : its wood

Examples of alder in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In response, 41 alders scheduled a hearing to learn more about the nominees and asked the mayor to encourage them to attend. Monica Eng, Axios, 31 Oct. 2024 That figure drew concern from alders, who questioned whether the amount used to patrol downtown entertainment or if overtime agreements could be tweaked to better cover costs. David Clarey, Journal Sentinel, 18 Oct. 2024 The sap groove prevents sticky buildup, which is perfect for working on resinous plants like creosote bush, aspen, desert willows, birch, and alder. Kristin Guy, Sunset Magazine, 15 Oct. 2024 Meaning: From the alder grove Alternative Spellings & Variations: Delany Faun A faun is a kind of mythical creature found in Pan’s Labyrinth. Taylor Grothe, Parents, 9 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for alder 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English alor; akin to Old High German elira alder, Latin alnus

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alder was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near alder

Cite this Entry

“Alder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alder. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

alder

noun
al·​der ˈȯl-dər How to pronounce alder (audio)
: any of a genus of toothed-leaved trees or shrubs related to the birches

Biographical Definition

Alder

biographical name

Al·​der ˈäl-dər How to pronounce Alder (audio)
Kurt 1902–1958 German chemist

More from Merriam-Webster on alder

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!