aspen

noun

as·​pen ˈa-spən 

: 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

Four grey wolves cross a minimalist landscape of naked aspens and snow in Yellowstone National Park. —Cecilia Rodriguez, Forbes, 26 Nov. 2024

There are also options for beginners and intermediate riders who wants heaps of space, with wide area green and blue runs through tall trees—uniquely, the resort is home to both aspens and pines. —Scott Bay, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Nov. 2024

The lot includes a patio surrounded by aspens with hot tub, firepit, and grill, plus access to hiking trails; the slopes, golf, and shops are a five-minute drive. —The Week Staff, theweek, 23 Oct. 2024

There was no other sound for several blissful minutes, just the dry yellow leaves of the aspen shaking and shimmering in the midday sun. —Dan Rodricks, Baltimore Sun, 26 Nov. 2024

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

Phrases Containing aspen

• quaking aspen

Kids Definition

aspen

noun

as·​pen ˈas-pən 

: any of several poplars with leaves that flutter in the lightest breeze

Geographical Definition

Aspen

geographical name

As·​pen ˈa-spən 

resort city in west central Colorado population 6658