elderberry

noun

el·​der·​ber·​ry ˈel-dər-ˌber-ē 

ˈel-də-,

-ˌbe-rē

1

: the edible black or red berrylike drupe of any of a genus (Sambucus) of shrubs or trees of the honeysuckle family bearing flat clusters of small white or pink flowers

2

: a tree or shrub bearing elderberries

Illustration of elderberry

Examples of elderberry in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Cranberry, ginger, and elderberry add a citrus twist, while blue agave keeps things slightly sweet. —Sarah Felbin, SELF, 14 Jan. 2025

But does elderberry truly help with cold and flu symptoms? —Kirstyn Hill, Pharmd, Mph, Health, 1 Jan. 2025

Neutral Palettes: Opt for warm, earthy tones like oatmeal, berry, or elderberry to set a calming foundation for your interior. —Kate Hardcastle, Forbes, 29 Nov. 2024

Ingredient highlights include nourishing glycerin and antioxidant-loaded staples like licorice and elderberry extracts. —Lauren Dana Ellman, Allure, 25 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

elderberry

noun

el·​der·​ber·​ry ˈel-də(r)-ˌber-ē 

1

: the edible black or red fruit of any of a genus of shrubs or trees of the same family as the honeysuckles that produce flat clusters of small white or pink flowers

2

: any tree or shrub that produces elderberries

Medical Definition

elderberry

noun

el·​der·​ber·​ry ˈel-də(r)-ˌber-ē 

plural elderberries

1

: the edible black or red berrylike drupe of a tree or shrub of the genus Sambucus that is eaten raw or processed into preserves or wines

2

: any tree or shrub of the genus Sambucus including several whose flowers or fruits were once considered to have medicinal properties see bourtree, sambucus sense 2