elm

noun

ˈelm 

1

: any of a genus (Ulmus of the family Ulmaceae, the elm family) of usually large deciduous north temperate-zone trees with alternate stipulate leaves and fruit that is a samara

2

: the wood of an elm

Illustration of elm

• elm 1

Examples of elm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Flower and vegetable gardens, oaks, redwoods and elms. —David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 9 May 2025

Meanwhile, experts say some native trees—including hemlock, elm and beech—are struggling in the city. —Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 May 2025

Flannel moths typically feed on elms, maples, hackberries, hollies, oaks and sycamores, according to the NC State Extension, so people who have these plants around their properties are more likely to encounter these caterpillars. —Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 18 Mar. 2025

Instead of being buried in three coffins, each made of cypress, lead, and elm, placed inside the other, his coffin will be a wooden one, lined with zinc. —George Petras, USA Today, 23 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English; akin to Old High German elme elm, Latin ulmus

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing elm

• American elm
• Dutch elm disease
• elm bark beetle
• elm leaf beetle
• elm yellows
• slippery elm
• smaller European elm bark beetle
• winged elm

Rhymes for elm

• helm
• realm
• overwhelm

Kids Definition

elm

noun

ˈelm 

1

: any of a genus of large deciduous trees that have toothed leaves and nearly circular one-seeded winged fruits and are often grown as shade trees

especially : american elm

2

: the wood of an elm