alerce

noun

aler·​ce

variants or alerse

ə-ˈler-sə

plural alerces or alerses

1

: the wood of the sandarac tree of Morocco

2

: a slow-growing evergreen tree (Fitzroya cupressoides) of southern Chile and Argentina that has small, scalelike leaves in whorls of three, furrowed, reddish bark, irregular branching, and small, roundish cones composed of nine scales and that is highly valued for its durable, reddish-brown wood

called also Patagonian cypress

Word History

Etymology

Spanish alerce larch, from Arabic al-arz the larch

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined at sense 1

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now