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

Stlukaleadership on the council would be collaborative with his district, with other alders, the city and with stakeholder groups. —Bridget Fogarty, jsonline.com, 19 Mar. 2026

The Roman soldiers guarding the fortlet enjoyed views of open pastures and cleared woodland consisting mainly of alder, hazel, and willow, with smaller amounts of oak and birch. —Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 15 Mar. 2026

There are several varieties that feed on apple, pear, elm, alder, beech, hawthorn, and silver maple trees. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 4 Mar. 2026

With Peoples Gas seeking a significant rate hike for next year, Chicago alders and residents spoke out on Tuesday at a City Council committee hearing on the proposal. —Tara Molina, CBS News, 3 Mar. 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