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

Every season offers a different experience, from cool summer escapes and golden fall aspens to snowy winter scenery and colorful spring wildflowers. — Abby Price, Travel + Leisure, 19 July 2026

Surrounded by towering old growth aspen and spruce trees and views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains, the home was built 20 years ago by local companies working closely with the original owners. — Catherine Dunwoody, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026

Down at the bottom of the hill, four aspen trees by the barn flashed the lighter sides of their leaves and then flashed back, a silent laughter. — Emily Ruskovich, The Atlantic, 7 July 2026

Sometimes the aspen leaves are blooming or changing color. — Shauna Farnell, Denver Post, 25 May 2026

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