noun
elder
A shrub or small tree with clusters of flowers and berries.
An elder grows beside the fence, covered in tiny white flowers.
Etymology
The tree name continues Old English ellen. It is a separate word from elder meaning older; the shared modern spelling does not explain the plant’s name.
More examples
- Clusters of dark berries hang from the elder in late summer.
- We plant two elders along the edge of the yard.
- The elder's flowers attract bees on warm afternoons.
Forms
elder · elders
elderflower noun — A flower of the elder plant.
Similar words
- elderberry
- Names the same plant but can also mean its fruit.