slippery elm

noun

1. an elm, Ulmus rubra, of eastern North America, having a mucilaginous inner bark.
2. the bark of this elm, used as a demulcent.

slippery elm

noun

1. a tree, Ulmus fulva, of E North America, having oblong serrated leaves, notched winged fruits, and a mucilaginous inner bark
2. the bark of this tree, used medicinally as a demulcent

Word History and Origins

Origin of slippery elm¹

First recorded in 1740–50

Example Sentences

Only starving people tried to make food from cattail seeds and the inner bark of slippery elm and willow trees.

From Project Gutenberg

The slippery elm said it would give of its bark to make the soothing healing drink.

From Project Gutenberg

The red or slippery elm (Ulmus fulva) is found throughout a great extent of country in Canada, Missouri, and as far south as lat.

From Project Gutenberg

Slippery elm bark, and spent bark from the tan works have also been suggested.

From Project Gutenberg

Slippery elm or "dragonroot" sticks for cleaning teeth can be got at chemists' shops as samples.

From Project Gutenberg