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

Among the mature palm, elm, and eucalyptus trees of LA’s Mount Washington neighborhood is a historic Craftsman aptly named Treehaven. —Charlotte Collins, Architectural Digest, 10 July 2024

An iconic elm tree that has stood on SW 10th Avenue since about 1870 will be removed by Portland Parks and Recreation because of age and damage from the January ice storm. —Joseph Gallivan, Axios, 26 July 2024

Shiitake mushrooms grow best on oak, but other hardwoods such as elm, sweet gum, maple, and alder also work well. —Rita Pelczar, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 July 2024

As the elms died, they were replaced with male trees that had been so popularized as litter-free. —Karl Schneider, The Indianapolis Star, 1 July 2024

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

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