maple

noun

ma·ple ˈmā-pəl

: any of a genus (Acer of the family Aceraceae, the maple family) of chiefly deciduous trees or shrubs with opposite leaves and a fruit of two united samaras

also : the hard light-colored close-grained wood of a maple used especially for flooring and furniture

Example Sentences

The maple leaf is an emblem of Canada. a table made of maple

Recent Examples on the Web Some examples are cold brew cream, spicy Thai coconut and chai filled maple glaze. —

Bahar Anooshahr, The Arizona Republic, 1 June 2023 Its broad physique also extends to its generous interior with impressive cabin space and ample room to accommodate cargo.† Inside, the CX-90 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus model includes Nappa leather, natural maple wood, and tone-on-tone fabrics in synthesis. —

Mara Balagtas Mcilwrath, Car and Driver, 1 June 2023 The sink base wears a rich brown wood finish, as do the maple countertops. —

Marisa Donnelly, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 May 2023 The drink boasts hints of maple wood and an aroma of caramel, along with a taste of bright orange bitters. —

People Staff, Peoplemag, 25 May 2023 The standard maple cabinets come in various finishes. —

Benjamin C Tankersley, Washington Post, 24 May 2023 In fact, there is more steam rising from the grounds of the Pharmalot campus than from our ritual cup of stimulation — our choice today is maple cinnamon French toast. —

Ed Silverman, STAT, 13 Apr. 2023 Try appetizers, like escargot a la Provencal, pork dumplings and venison cigar rolls with maple horseradish aioli, and entrees such as the Thai haddock with coconut curry sauce, brie and bacon chicken, or a classic bistro steak. —

Pamela Wright, BostonGlobe.com, 4 May 2023 Pure maple syrup is maple sap that's been boiled down to reduce water and concentrate the flavors. —

Bhg Test Kitchen, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Apr. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'maple.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English mapul-; akin to Old Norse mǫpurr maple

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of maple was in the 14th century

See more words from the same century

Cite this Entry

Style

“Maple.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maple. Accessed 5 Jun. 2023.

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Kids Definition

maple

noun

ma·ple ˈmā-pəl

: any of a group of trees having deeply notched opposite leaves, dry fruits with two wings, and hard light-colored wood and including some from which maple syrup and maple sugar are obtained

also : the wood of a maple