elderflower

noun

el·​der·​flow·​er ˈel-dər-ˌflau̇(-ə)r 

: the flower of an elderberry (such as Sambucus nigra) used especially in making wines, liqueurs, and teas

On its own, this 40-proof liqueur, said to be the first made from fresh elderflowers hand-picked in the Alps and macerated in eau de vie, is pretty intense unless it's cut with ice and a splash of soda.

—Florence Fabricant

… Percy heaved an impressive sigh and took a deep swig of elderflower wine …

—J. K. Rowling

Examples of elderflower in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This cocktail features Tanqueray Gin, elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, fresh pink grapefruit juice, sugar syrup and grapefruit, for garnish. —Aly Walansky, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025

The palate features similar aromas with rose, peony waters, and elderflower elements. —Joseph V Micallef, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025

Companies like Plus Gummies feature exotic flavors like yuzu and elderflower, providing a fresh, sophisticated twist on the classic gummy. —Matt Rozo, The Mercury News, 7 Mar. 2025

Tristan and Siegfried drive off with two bottles of Mr. Dobson’s elderflower wine, chatting and trying to figure out what made the horse pass out when the car putters and dies. —Alice Burton, Vulture, 16 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1562, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for elderflower

• candlepower
• cauliflower
• overpower
• superpower
• vavasour
• waterpower
• airpower
• brainpower
• devour
• empower
• firepower
• horsepower