elm

noun

ˈelm 

1

: any of a genus (Ulmus of the family Ulmaceae, the elm family) of usually large deciduous north temperate-zone trees with alternate stipulate leaves and fruit that is a samara

2

: the wood of an elm

Illustration of elm

• elm 1

Examples of elm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The walls and ceiling feature 200-year-old wood reclaimed from farmhouses, and the furniture is made from local elm. —Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 1 June 2026

Some trees like the Chinese elms seem to be more shallow-rooted and likely to blow over. —Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 May 2026

The results from the survey of about 500 trees in the Palisades and 1,500 in Altadena — including conifers, palms, Chinese elms and carrotwoods — seem to confirm worrying patterns observed by arborists and local volunteers in the burn scars, who said losses will probably continue for years to come. —Los Angeles Times, 7 May 2026

Similarly, American elm trees can attract bark beetles that transmit Dutch elm disease during that time, so opt for late winter instead. —Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English; akin to Old High German elme elm, Latin ulmus

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing elm

• American elm
• Dutch elm disease
• elm bark beetle
• elm leaf beetle
• elm yellows
• slippery elm
• smaller European elm bark beetle
• winged elm

Rhymes for elm

• helm
• realm
• overwhelm

Kids Definition

elm

noun

ˈelm 

1

: any of a genus of large deciduous trees that have toothed leaves and nearly circular one-seeded winged fruits and are often grown as shade trees

especially : american elm

2

: the wood of an elm