noun
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the berry-like fruit of the elder, used for making wines, jellies, etc
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another name for elder 1
Usage
What else does elderberry mean? Elderberries are edible, bluish purple berries popularly used to help fight colds and flus. Elderberries are humorously referenced in a popular quote from the 1975 comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail: "Your mother was a hamster and your father smelt of elderberries."
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of elderberry
First recorded in 1400–50, elderberry is from the late Middle English word eldirbery. See elder 2, berry
Explanation
The elderberry did not get its name for being old and wise. Instead, this tiny black fruit was named after the plant it comes from, and is often used to make jams and drinks. The elderberry is the dark purple fruit of the elder tree, found mainly in Europe and Asia. These berries are cherished for making delicious jams and syrups. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, elderberries also offer numerous health benefits; however, it's important to cook them before eating, as raw elderberries can be toxic. The elder tree also produces beautiful white flowers, which are often used to make teas and other refreshing beverages.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Elderberry bushes are hardy and often grow like weeds along riverbanks or roadsides; their dark purple berries long have been utilized as medicine for colds and sore throats.
From Seattle Times • May 17, 2023
A: Elderberry shrubs grow in many parts of the northern hemisphere.
From Seattle Times • Dec. 7, 2022
Elderberry is high in antioxidants called anthocyanins, which have strong anti-inflammatory properties.
From US News • Dec. 13, 2013
Elderberry also helps to dry up mucus and bring it up from the lungs.
From US News • Dec. 13, 2013
Mr. Elderberry removed from his change pocket five glittering gold pieces and slid one across the glass sheet to each director.
From Tutt and Mr. Tutt by Train, Arthur Cheney
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
