elderflower

noun

el·​der·​flow·​er ˈel-dər-ˌflau̇(-ə)r How to pronounce elderflower (audio)
: 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
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.
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 Also, don't miss the Elderflower Serenade ($12), a bright, botanical blend of bourbon, sherry and pomegranate syrup, topped with delicate elderflower foam. Madalyn Mendoza, Axios, 13 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for elderflower

Word History

First Known Use

1562, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of elderflower was in 1562

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Elderflower.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elderflower. Accessed 6 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!