aspen

noun

as·​pen ˈa-spən How to pronounce aspen (audio)
: any of several poplars (especially Populus tremula of Europe and P. tremuloides and P. grandidentata of North America) with leaves that flutter in the lightest wind because of their flattened petioles

Examples of aspen 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 this composition, the mammals are joined only by a grouping of aspen trees, leafless against the winter ground. Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 Jan. 2025 Even on weekdays, roads to scenic aspen byways nearest the Front Range have become nearly as congested as Denver city streets during rush hour. Krista Kafer, The Denver Post, 3 Oct. 2024 Four grey wolves cross a minimalist landscape of naked aspens and snow in Yellowstone National Park. Cecilia Rodriguez, Forbes, 26 Nov. 2024 There are also options for beginners and intermediate riders who wants heaps of space, with wide area green and blue runs through tall trees—uniquely, the resort is home to both aspens and pines. Scott Bay, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for aspen 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, of an aspen, from asp aspen, from Old English æspe; akin to Old High German aspa aspen, Russian osina

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of aspen was in 1593

Dictionary Entries Near aspen

Cite this Entry

“Aspen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aspen. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

aspen

noun
as·​pen ˈas-pən How to pronounce aspen (audio)
: any of several poplars with leaves that flutter in the lightest breeze

Geographical Definition

Aspen

geographical name

As·​pen ˈa-spən How to pronounce Aspen (audio)
resort city in west central Colorado population 6658

More from Merriam-Webster on aspen

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