elm

noun

ˈelm 

1

: any of a genus (Ulmus of the family Ulmaceae, the elm family) of usually large deciduous north temperate-zone trees with alternate stipulate leaves and fruit that is a samara

2

: the wood of an elm

Illustration of elm

• elm 1

Examples of elm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The results from the survey of about 500 trees in the Palisades and 1,500 in Altadena — including conifers, palms, Chinese elms and carrotwoods — seem to confirm worrying patterns observed by arborists and local volunteers in the burn scars, who said losses will probably continue for years to come. —Los Angeles Times, 7 May 2026

Similarly, American elm trees can attract bark beetles that transmit Dutch elm disease during that time, so opt for late winter instead. —Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 May 2026

Lined with stately elm trees between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, the reflecting pool is one of the most iconic sites in the capital. —ABC News, 23 Apr. 2026

And board member Mavis Bates asked if American elm trees are susceptible to Dutch elm disease, to which Fahnestock said there are steps the county could take like using insecticide or fungicide, doing regular inspections and planting the tree away from existing elm trees so disease doesn’t spread. —Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 16 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English; akin to Old High German elme elm, Latin ulmus

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing elm

• American elm
• Dutch elm disease
• elm bark beetle
• elm leaf beetle
• elm yellows
• slippery elm
• smaller European elm bark beetle
• winged elm

Rhymes for elm

• helm
• realm
• overwhelm

Kids Definition

elm

noun

ˈelm 

1

: any of a genus of large deciduous trees that have toothed leaves and nearly circular one-seeded winged fruits and are often grown as shade trees

especially : american elm

2

: the wood of an elm