aspen

noun

as·​pen ˈa-spən How to pronounce aspen (audio)
: 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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Meaning: The name Aspen is derived from the aspen tree, the most common hardwood tree in the US known for its white bark. Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 24 Jan. 2025 But this 24-mile scenic byway road, especially, and other mountain passes that are abundant with the state’s iconic aspen trees, can be terribly congested with car traffic during fall colors season. Mindy Sink, The Denver Post, 15 Jan. 2025 In this composition, the mammals are joined only by a grouping of aspen trees, leafless against the winter ground. Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 Jan. 2025 Even on weekdays, roads to scenic aspen byways nearest the Front Range have become nearly as congested as Denver city streets during rush hour. Krista Kafer, The Denver Post, 3 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for aspen 

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of aspen was in 1593

Dictionary Entries Near aspen

Cite this Entry

“Aspen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aspen. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

aspen

noun
as·​pen ˈas-pən How to pronounce aspen (audio)
: any of several poplars with leaves that flutter in the lightest breeze

Geographical Definition

Aspen

geographical name

As·​pen ˈa-spən How to pronounce Aspen (audio)
resort city in west central Colorado population 6658

More from Merriam-Webster on aspen

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