alder

noun

al·​der ˈȯl-dər 

: any of a genus (Alnus) of toothed-leaved trees or shrubs of the birch family that have catkins which become woody, that typically grow in cool moist ground, and that have wood used especially in turnery

also : its wood

Examples of alder in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But some alders want to invite leaders from the Cook County court system and Chicago public safety officials for a special hearing on the court system's response to criminal warrants, orders of protection, and their electronic monitoring programs. —Sabrina Franza, CBS News, 5 May 2026

White alders, cottonwoods, and other deciduous trees lining the byway put on a brilliant show for drivers, especially impressive during golden hour each day. —Cu Fleshman, Travel + Leisure, 3 May 2026

Other samples contained alder and ash, more common to rivers, as well as fir and beech more typical of the mountain regions of Istria and Dalmatia. —ArsTechnica, 2 May 2026

Fothergilla Also known as the witch-alder, fothergilla is native to the Southeastern United States and is sure to impress with its spherical flowers that are reminiscent of buttonbush blooms. —Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 1 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English alor; akin to Old High German elira alder, Latin alnus

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing alder

• black alder

Rhymes for alder

• balder

Kids Definition

alder

noun

al·​der ˈȯl-dər 

: any of a genus of toothed-leaved trees or shrubs related to the birches

Biographical Definition

Alder

biographical name

Al·​der ˈäl-dər 

Kurt 1902–1958 German chemist