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 many alders, including 28 who sent a letter to Johnson last week, wanted to see more cuts — including to the mayoral staff — and a freeze on expanding his summer jobs program. —Monica Eng, Axios, 13 Dec. 2024

These and other measures should be fully considered in the decision of alders on whether to issue new debt and, if so, how much. —Dana Levenson, Chicago Tribune, 25 Feb. 2025

The proposal eliminates the property tax hike through, among other things, staff cuts that Johnson had vehemently opposed but alders wanted. —Monica Eng, Axios, 15 Dec. 2024

Anthony Napolitano introduced a proposal to restore the Columbus statue in Arrigo Park, citing the city's failure to take down a puppet display at the Cultural Center that some alders have called antisemitic. —Monica Eng, Axios, 19 Feb. 2025

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