elm

noun

ˈelm 

1

: any of a genus (Ulmus of the family Ulmaceae, the elm family) of usually large deciduous north temperate-zone trees with alternate stipulate leaves and fruit that is a samara

2

: the wood of an elm

Illustration of elm

• elm 1

Examples of elm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But a third of the survey’s dugouts have turned out to be hardwoods, including oak, hickory and elm; the latter is known for its tough, interlocking grain—and its modern reputation for requiring the use of power tools. —Jacqueline Kehoe, Smithsonian Magazine, 26 Dec. 2024

In Central Texas, look for changing colors on bald cypress trees — which typically grow along our rivers and lakes — red oaks, pecan trees and cedar elms. —Bob Gee, Axios, 16 Dec. 2024

Explore the many wooden boardwalks or hike off-piste among forests of ash, spruce, elm, and oak in special bog shoes. —Phoebe Smith, AFAR Media, 18 Dec. 2024

We are surrounded by trees: sycamore, lemon, pomegranate, orange, cypress, elm, maple, and oak. —Ali Martin, The Christian Science Monitor, 12 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English; akin to Old High German elme elm, Latin ulmus

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing elm

• American elm
• Dutch elm disease
• elm bark beetle
• elm leaf beetle
• elm yellows
• slippery elm
• smaller European elm bark beetle
• winged elm

Kids Definition

elm

noun

ˈelm 

1

: any of a genus of large deciduous trees that have toothed leaves and nearly circular one-seeded winged fruits and are often grown as shade trees

especially : american elm

2

: the wood of an elm