elm

[ elm ]

noun

1. any tree of the genus Ulmus, as U. procera English elm, characterized by the gradually spreading columnar manner of growth of its branches. Compare American elm, elm family.
2. the wood of such a tree.

elm

/ ɛlm /

noun

1. any ulmaceous tree of the genus Ulmus, occurring in the N hemisphere, having serrated leaves and winged fruits (samaras): cultivated for shade, ornament, and timber
2. the hard heavy wood of this tree

Word History and Origins

Origin of elm¹

before 1000; Middle English, Old English; cognate with Old High German elm; akin to Old Norse almr, Latin ulmus

Word History and Origins

Origin of elm¹

Old English elm; related to Old Norse almr, Old High German elm, Latin ulmus

Example Sentences

First, it was a driver of a sedan slowing down to a crawl and pointing as they passed the Spanish-style mansion, draped in elm leaves and hidden behind a privacy fence.

From Los Angeles Times

The backyard lawn took up most of the sun, and the front yard lawn, heavily shaded by the stately elm trees lining the block, was so compacted and sun-deprived “it was basically already dead.”

From Los Angeles Times

The cloaked trees have created a mysterious and striking effect across the city and its suburbs, with purple and green leaves of Japanese maples or elms barely visible behind translucent tulle.

From New York Times

Maples, elms, and magnolia trees bloomed almost a month prematurely in the Chicago region.

From Salon

Some of the most common tree pollens that cause allergies include birch, cedar, cottonwood, maple, elm, oak and walnut, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

From Seattle Times