alder

noun

al·​der ˈȯl-dər 

: any of a genus (Alnus) of toothed-leaved trees or shrubs of the birch family that have catkins which become woody, that typically grow in cool moist ground, and that have wood used especially in turnery

also : its wood

Examples of alder in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Other samples contained alder and ash, more common to rivers, as well as fir and beech more typical of the mountain regions of Istria and Dalmatia. —ArsTechnica, 2 May 2026

Fothergilla Also known as the witch-alder, fothergilla is native to the Southeastern United States and is sure to impress with its spherical flowers that are reminiscent of buttonbush blooms. —Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 1 May 2026

With only one alder voting against the proposal in committee, passage appears likely. —Chris Tye, CBS News, 14 Apr. 2026

Stlukaleadership on the council would be collaborative with his district, with other alders, the city and with stakeholder groups. —Bridget Fogarty, jsonline.com, 19 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English alor; akin to Old High German elira alder, Latin alnus

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing alder

• black alder

Rhymes for alder

• balder

Kids Definition

alder

noun

al·​der ˈȯl-dər 

: any of a genus of toothed-leaved trees or shrubs related to the birches

Biographical Definition

Alder

biographical name

Al·​der ˈäl-dər 

Kurt 1902–1958 German chemist