shade tree

noun

: a tree grown primarily to produce shade

Examples of shade tree in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Among the favorites were species known to grow fast, such as laurel oaks and water oaks, which could become beautiful shade trees within a decade. Orlando Sentinel Editorial Board, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 Apr. 2026 In the garden, it is planted as a shade tree for its blooms, which are a welcome sign of spring. Steve Bender, Southern Living, 23 Apr. 2026 Cut limbs on large shade trees that are in the way back to a major branch. Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Mar. 2026 The Boyle Heights project would enhance bike lanes and pedestrian-level lighting, as well as extend street curbs and plant more than 300 shade trees. Melissa Gomez, Los Angeles Times, 27 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for shade tree

Word History

First Known Use

1806, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shade tree was in 1806

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shade tree.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shade%20tree. Accessed 28 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

shade tree

noun
: a tree grown chiefly to make shade
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster