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

This region is particularly beautiful in the fall, when the leaves of willow, cottonwood, and aspen trees change color. —Chelsee Lowe, Travel + Leisure, 29 Oct. 2024

The windows are shaped like the characteristic patterns on aspen trees. —Judith Kohler, The Denver Post, 18 Oct. 2024

In the Arizona high country or along riparian areas, cottonwood, ash, aspen and other deciduous trees grow and, come fall, drop their leaves. —Hayleigh Evans, The Arizona Republic, 23 Oct. 2024

The sap groove prevents sticky buildup, which is perfect for working on resinous plants like creosote bush, aspen, desert willows, birch, and alder. —Kristin Guy, Sunset Magazine, 15 Oct. 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