giant sequoia

noun

: an evergreen tree (Sequoiadendron giganteum) of the cypress family that grows on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range and sometimes exceeds 270 feet (about 82 meters) in height

called also big tree, sequoia

see cone illustration

Examples of giant sequoia 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.
Over the past 30 years, Archangel Ancient Tree Archive has made its name on cloning more than 130 tree species across the country, including giant sequoias and 3,000-year-old California redwoods. Christopher Cann, USA TODAY, 14 Apr. 2024 The California park is renowned for its giant sequoias, incredible hikes, towering waterfalls, and more. Alison Fox, Travel + Leisure, 16 Oct. 2024 Renowned for its majestic waterfalls and giant sequoias. Judy Koutsky, Forbes, 24 Sep. 2024 The Windy Fire blazes through the Long Meadow Grove of giant sequoia trees near The Trail of 100 Giants overnight in Sequoia National Forest on September 21, 2021, near California Hot Springs, California. Benj Edwards, Ars Technica, 16 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for giant sequoia 

Word History

First Known Use

1860, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of giant sequoia was in 1860

Dictionary Entries Near giant sequoia

Cite this Entry

“Giant sequoia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/giant%20sequoia. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

giant sequoia

noun
: a California evergreen tree related to the bald cypresses and sometimes exceeding 270 feet (about 82 meters) in height

called also big tree, sequoia

More from Merriam-Webster on giant sequoia

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!