American elm

noun

: a large elm (Ulmus americana) of eastern and central North America that has gradually spreading branches and pendulous branchlets

Examples of American elm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The renovations feature an interior design inspired by the American elm tree and photographs from British photographer David Yarrow. Fousia Abdullahi, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Sep. 2025 The Fishers park spans 127 acres of primarily red oak and sugar maple trees, though the area of Cheney Creek has some green ash, Ohio buckeye and American elm trees, according to the Nature Conservancy. Marissa Meador, IndyStar, 18 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1770, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of American elm was in 1770

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“American elm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/American%20elm. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

American elm

noun
: a large ornamental tree common in the eastern U.S.

More from Merriam-Webster on American elm

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!