aspen

noun

as·​pen ˈa-spən 

: any of several poplars (especially Populus tremula of Europe and P. tremuloides and P. grandidentata of North America) with leaves that flutter in the lightest wind because of their flattened petioles

Examples of aspen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

To soak up the view, ride up some 11,500 feet on the scenic gondola at the Arizona Snowbowl, then visit Oak Creek Canyon to see the mosaic of colorful aspens and maples in Coconino National Forest. —Stephanie Vermillion, Travel + Leisure, 20 Oct. 2025

My campsite was tucked along Prince Creek, surrounded by aspens and sandstone cliffs. —Erica Zazo, Outside, 14 Oct. 2025

The area put on a display of yellow aspen trees dotting the mountains between evergreens, their delicate leaves vibrating in the wind. —Jessica Coacci, Fortune, 14 Oct. 2025

The slender aspens unfurl golden banners against the dark wall of evergreens. —Roger Naylor, AZCentral.com, 10 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, of an aspen, from asp aspen, from Old English æspe; akin to Old High German aspa aspen, Russian osina

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing aspen

• quaking aspen

Kids Definition

aspen

noun

as·​pen ˈas-pən 

: any of several poplars with leaves that flutter in the lightest breeze

Geographical Definition

Aspen

geographical name

As·​pen ˈa-spən 

resort city in west central Colorado population 6658