whitten

noun

whit·​ten

ˈ(h)witᵊn

variants or whitten tree

plural -s

dialectal, England

: any of several trees or shrubs: such as

a

: guelder-rose

b

: wayfaring tree

c

: rowan tree

Word History

Etymology

from (assumed) Middle English whitten tree, from Old English hwītingtrēow, from hwīt white + -ing + trēow tree

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now