tree

noun

\ ˈtrē

Definition of tree

(Entry 1 of 2)

1a : a woody perennial plant having a single usually elongate main stem generally with few or no branches on its lower part

b : a shrub or herb of arborescent form rose trees a banana tree

2 : something in the form of or resembling a tree: such as

a : a diagram or graph that branches usually from a simple stem or vertex without forming loops or polygons a genealogical tree phylogenetic trees

b : a much-branched system of channels especially in an animal body the vascular tree

3a(1) : a piece of wood (such as a post or pole) usually adapted to a particular use or forming part of a structure or implement

(2) archaic : the cross on which Jesus was crucified

b archaic : gallows

4 : saddletree

tree

verb

treed; treeing

Definition of tree (Entry 2 of 2)

transitive verb

1a : to drive to or up a tree treed by a bull dogs treeing game

b : to put into a position of extreme disadvantage : corner especially : to bring to bay

2 : to furnish or fit (a shoe) with a tree

Other Words from tree More Example Sentences Phrases Containing tree Learn More About tree

Examples of tree in a Sentence

Noun He chopped down the tree.

Recent Examples on the Web: Noun Upon arriving at the scene, emergency personnel found the officer was trapped in their vehicle, which had crashed into a small tree, officials said. — Quinlan Bentley, The Enquirer, 27 Apr. 2022 The 1978 Oldsmobile crashed into a tree, killing the driver and severely injuring Bruce, who was flown by helicopter to Tampa General Hospital. — Ellie Silverman And Ian Shapira, Anchorage Daily News, 26 Apr. 2022 Saldana lost control of the car for unknown reasons, veered off the freeway and crashed into a tree, authorities said. — San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Apr. 2022 The 1978 Oldsmobile crashed into a tree, killing the driver and severely injuring Bruce, who was flown by helicopter to Tampa General Hospital. — Washington Post, 24 Apr. 2022 Golfweek On the par-4, 428-yard sixth hole at Harbour Town Golf Links on Sunday, Dylan Frittelli hit a wayward drive left that sent his ball into a tree. — Todd Kelly, USA TODAY, 18 Apr. 2022 Carlton Keegan, 18, died on March 30 when a car driven by his friend crashed into a tree, according to KRON. — Jason Duaine Hahn, PEOPLE.com, 7 Apr. 2022 The victim managed to grab the knife from her daughter, but the vehicle crossed the center lane and crashed into a tree on the west side of Seventh Avenue, according to the court records. — Brock Blasdell, The Arizona Republic, 21 Mar. 2022 The two girls who were playing in that area were struck by the vehicle, which eventually stopped after crashing into a tree. — David Aaro, Fox News, 18 Mar. 2022 Recent Examples on the Web: Verb People suffering from allergies to tree nuts, including almonds and cashews, should always be on the lookout for desserts that might be dangerous to consume. — Chris Smith, BGR, 28 Jan. 2022 All over America’s ancient eastern mountains, there’s an organism that lives underground, tethered to tree roots, waiting to be hunted. — Rowan Jacobsen, Outside Online, 19 Jan. 2022 Best-sellers include a 100% silk Declaration of Independence necktie, a She Persisted book about 13 American women who changed history, and History Makers tree ornaments (including one of Ruth Bader Ginsburg). — Irene S. Levine, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2021 Elgin police have a full schedule of events planned for the holidays, ranging from gift shopping with children to tree decorating to ringing bells for the Elgin Salvation Army’s Kettle Campaign. — Gloria Casas, chicagotribune.com, 24 Nov. 2021 Of all the food allergies, being allergic to tree nuts is by far the most common. — Yoni Heisler, BGR, 29 Oct. 2021 But there is more to tree planting than putting plants in the ground. — Greg Moran, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Aug. 2021 The study concludes climate change and extreme weather are emerging threats to tree species globally. — Jamie Hailstone, Forbes, 1 Sep. 2021 But there is more to tree planting than putting plants in the ground. — Greg Moran, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Aug. 2021 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'tree.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.