sapling

noun

sap·​ling ˈsa-pliŋ How to pronounce sapling (audio)
-plən
1
: a young tree
specifically : one not over four inches (about 10 centimeters) in diameter at breast height
2

Examples of sapling 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.
In Detroit, arborists are planting dozens of giant sequoia saplings in a blighted area in hopes of creating an urban forest that will clean the air, provide shade and, overall, improve residents’ quality of life. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 May 2025 President Donald Trump is expected to plant a young sapling from a historic White House Southern Magnolia tree on Tuesday. Ashley J. Dimella Fox News, FOXNews.com, 8 Apr. 2025 Acevedo will have to wait until February to grow his next saplings — all of them Hass, the major variety grown in California. Cindy Carcamo, Los Angeles Times, 20 Nov. 2024 The president will participate at 10:30 a.m. in the planting of a sapling to take the place of the White House Andrew Jackson magnolia tree removed Monday because of age and safety. Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 8 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sapling

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sapling was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sapling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sapling. Accessed 18 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

sapling

noun
sap·​ling ˈsap-liŋ How to pronounce sapling (audio)
: a young tree

More from Merriam-Webster on sapling

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