maple

noun

ma·​ple ˈmā-pəl 

: any of a genus (Acer of the family Sapindaceae, the soapberry 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

Examples of maple in a Sentence

The maple leaf is an emblem of Canada.

a table made of maple

Recent Examples on the Web

The 14-ounce glass cups feature charming pumpkins and maple leaf designs—perfect for everything from morning orange juice to evening old fashions—and offer a classy upgrade from the disposable cup. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Nov. 2025

In Mont-Tremblant, La Forge Steakhouse serves meats grilled over maple-wood coals in a luxurious setting. —Stephanie Stephens, USA Today, 13 Nov. 2025

Potential Drawbacks While maple and agave syrups are often viewed as healthy alternatives to table sugar, both come with potential drawbacks. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 13 Nov. 2025

The bar experience’s food includes sweet potato poutine, coconut Shrimp with mango chili sauce and maple Brussels sprouts. —Kansas City Star, 12 Nov. 2025

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

Phrases Containing maple

• bird's-eye maple
• hard maple
• Japanese maple
• maple sugar
• maple syrup
• Norway maple
• red maple
• rock maple
• silver maple
• sugar maple
• tiger maple
• vine maple

Rhymes for maple

• papal
• staple

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