American elm

noun

: a large elm (Ulmus americana) of eastern and central North America that has gradually spreading branches and pendulous branchlets

Examples of American elm 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.
But soon Lexington flourished, with suburbs sprouting among bur oak and American elm trees. — Jesse Bedayn, Fortune, 22 Dec. 2025 At 50 feet tall, these varieties are smaller than the American elm, thrive in full to part sun, and require low to medium water. — Special To The Denver Post, Denver Post, 1 May 2026 Similarly, American elm trees can attract bark beetles that transmit Dutch elm disease during that time, so opt for late winter instead. — Luke Miller, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 May 2026 The renovations feature an interior design inspired by the American elm tree and photographs from British photographer David Yarrow. — Fousia Abdullahi, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for American elm

Word History

First Known Use

1770, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of American elm was in 1770

Rhymes for American elm

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Browse Nearby Words

American elder
American elm
American empire
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Cite this Entry

“American elm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/American%20elm. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

American elm

noun
: a large ornamental tree common in the eastern U.S.

More from Merriam-Webster on American elm

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about American elm

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