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

Here's what Arizonans must know, including affected brands Drought, higher temperatures, hungry elk threaten aspen trees near Flagstaff Traders and collectors long defined Native art. —Debra Utacia Krol, The Arizona Republic, 19 Nov. 2024

The aspens that have leaves left are shimmering gold. —Erik Kain, Forbes, 27 Oct. 2024

The name Populus comes from the scientific term for aspens: Populus tremuloides. —Judith Kohler, The Denver Post, 18 Oct. 2024

There’s nothing quite like biking through colorful aspens in the crisp autumn air. —Outside Online, 20 Sep. 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