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.

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

And when things feel hopeless, we step outside our door and watch the golden light stream through our old California elm.

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The unanimous Incorrigibles ran to the nursery window, where the long branch of the elm reached out to them, just on the other side of the glass.

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“Nice elm out there! Say, it’s almost dawn; look how the light is changing. Wouldn’t it be fun to take a walk and see the sunrise?”

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The chair and cage - also made from English elm - are due to be auctioned on 6 December.

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Scientists had feared the ash would go the way of the elm, which has been almost wiped out by Dutch elm disease.

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