elderflower

noun

el·​der·​flow·​er ˈel-dər-ˌflau̇(-ə)r How to pronounce elderflower (audio)
: the flower of an elderberry (such as Sambucus nigra) used especially in making wines, liqueurs, and teas
On its own, this 40-proof liqueur, said to be the first made from fresh elderflowers hand-picked in the Alps and macerated in eau de vie, is pretty intense unless it's cut with ice and a splash of soda.Florence Fabricant
… Percy heaved an impressive sigh and took a deep swig of elderflower wine …J. K. Rowling

Examples of elderflower 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.
Classic and seasonal cocktails will be available, including Berry Bliss (vodka, blackberry basil simple, lemon and sparkling wine), Gin Flowers (gin, vodka, Lillet, elderflower and grapefruit) and Sunset Pome (bourbon, pomegranate, lemon and honey simple). Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 16 Sep. 2025 The drink is one of two wine selections or an elderflower-prosecco spritz. Linda Zavoral, Mercury News, 16 Sep. 2025 Unique to Palm Tree Club KC is the spritz flight, available at the upstairs lounge area, including two lavender hugo spritzes and two elderflower aperol spritzes. Andrew Watman, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025 Made with champagne, elderflower liqueur, fresh watermelon juice, and a squeeze of lime, it can also easily be turned into a mocktail using sparkling cider or soda water. Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for elderflower

Word History

First Known Use

1562, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of elderflower was in 1562

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Cite this Entry

“Elderflower.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elderflower. Accessed 18 Sep. 2025.

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