service tree

noun

1. either of two European trees, Sorbus domestica, bearing a small, acid fruit that is edible when overripe, or S. torminalis wild service tree, bearing a similar fruit.
2. serviceberry ( defs 2, 3 ).

service tree

noun

1. Also calledsorb a Eurasian rosaceous tree, Sorbus domestica, cultivated for its white flowers and brown edible apple-like fruits
2. wild service tree
   a similar and related Eurasian tree, Sorbus torminalis

Word History and Origins

Origin of service tree¹

First recorded in 1535–45

Word History and Origins

Origin of service tree¹

service, from Old English syrfe, from Vulgar Latin sorbea (unattested), from Latin sorbus sorb

Example Sentences

A service tree laden with sweet red fruit stood in front of her, and she passed it by.

From Project Gutenberg

Outside one could hear the noisy twittering of the sparrows in the branches of the service tree, whose foliage shot through the broken panes.

From Project Gutenberg

Yes, Boris, I loved books and my gymnasium, the ancients and the moderns, my scholars, and you, Boris; I loved the street, this hedge, the service tree there, only through my love for her.

From Project Gutenberg

There were broad stretching elms, cherry and apple trees, service trees, and there were lime trees intended to form an avenue, which lost itself in a wood in the friendly neighbourhood of pines and birches.

From Project Gutenberg