elm

noun

ˈelm How to pronounce elm (audio)
1
: any of a genus (Ulmus of the family Ulmaceae, the elm family) of usually large deciduous north temperate-zone trees with alternate stipulate leaves and fruit that is a samara
2
: the wood of an elm

Illustration of elm

Illustration of elm
  • elm 1

Examples of elm 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.
Similarly, American elm trees can attract the bark beetles that transmit Dutch elm disease then, so opt for late winter instead. — Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Mar. 2025 The accompanying memorial, which includes an elm that withstood the blast (dubbed the Survivor Tree), an orchard honoring first responders, and a field of 168 empty chairs to represent those who died, is a quiet space to reflect. — Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 7 Feb. 2025 The most devastating example was Dutch elm disease which came into the United States in the 1930s in infected logs, then killed majestic American elms that lined city streets across the eastern half of the country. — Neil Sperry, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 Jan. 2025 The downy woodpecker eats the beetles that cause Dutch elm disease, as well as the emerald ash borer, which is wreaking havoc on our native ashes. — Sheryl De Vore, Chicago Tribune, 21 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for elm

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English; akin to Old High German elme elm, Latin ulmus

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Phrases Containing elm

Rhymes for elm

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Cite this Entry

“Elm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elm. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

elm

noun
ˈelm How to pronounce elm (audio)
1
: any of a genus of large deciduous trees that have toothed leaves and nearly circular one-seeded winged fruits and are often grown as shade trees
especially : american elm
2
: the wood of an elm

More from Merriam-Webster on elm

Nglish: Translation of elm for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about elm

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