sapling

noun

sap·​ling ˈsa-pliŋ 

-plən

1

: a young tree

specifically : one not over four inches (about 10 centimeters) in diameter at breast height

2

: youth sense 2a

Examples of sapling in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In some ways, shorebirds are analogous to the wolves that hunt the deer and elk populations that eat the tree saplings that become the trees that beavers use to build dams that help the fish—and so on. — Rivka Galchen, New Yorker, 14 Sep. 2026

Rubs are typically made on saplings 1 to 3 inches in diameter; the tree typically dies since its bark is often slashed away completely around its trunk. — Jim Zumbo, Outdoor Life, 10 Sep. 2026

In Vermont, federal researchers are hoping to save American elm trees by infecting young saplings with the fungal disease that has nearly exterminated the tall, once prevalent, East Coast trees. — Susanne Rust follow, Los Angeles Times, 3 Sep. 2026

The name of the event is taken from the practice of bending saplings in a certain direction that would take root as a signpost. — Gregory Harutunian, Chicago Tribune, 25 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sapling

• grappling

Kids Definition

sapling

noun

sap·​ling ˈsap-liŋ 

: a young tree