aspen

noun

as·​pen ˈa-spən 

: any of several poplars (especially Populus tremula of Europe and P. tremuloides and P. grandidentata of North America) with leaves that flutter in the lightest wind because of their flattened petioles

Examples of aspen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Peak Color: Great Basin is a higher-elevation park, so aspens begin to turn in the middle of September and are typically done by mid-October. —Graham Averill, Outside Online, 16 Sep. 2024

In Colorado, for instance, above-average precipitation and healthy aspen trees should produce a dazzling display of gold in the Rocky Mountains. —Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 12 Sep. 2024

Trek the inner loop of Oak Hill Trail to see maples turn red, sassafras glow orange and white ash and big tooth aspen shine in all their yellow glory in early October. —Joni Sweet, Forbes, 10 Sep. 2024

Stretch your legs for a mile or so along the East Baldy Trail where aspens blaze like soft torches lighting the way through long meadows. —Laura Daniella Sepulveda, The Arizona Republic, 9 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, of an aspen, from asp aspen, from Old English æspe; akin to Old High German aspa aspen, Russian osina

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing aspen

• quaking aspen

Kids Definition

aspen

noun

as·​pen ˈas-pən 

: any of several poplars with leaves that flutter in the lightest breeze

Geographical Definition

Aspen

geographical name

As·​pen ˈa-spən 

resort city in west central Colorado population 6658