wych elm

noun

variants or witch elm

ˈwiˌchelm,

-eu̇m,

⸗ˈ⸗

or less commonly wych hazel

ˈwichˌhāzəl,

ˈwiˌchā-,

⸗ˈ⸗⸗

1

: a Eurasian elm (Ulmus glabra) that is common in England, Scotland, and Ireland and has shorter leafstalks but larger fruit than English elm

2

: the wood of the wych elm

Word History

Etymology

wych from Middle English wyche (tree)

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