noun
elderberry
EL-duh-beh-ree
Elderberry (noun) means a shrub or small tree of the genus Sambucus. Example: “They planted an elderberry at the bottom of the garden for the birds.”
noun
1
A shrub or small tree of the genus Sambucus.
"They planted an elderberry at the bottom of the garden for the birds."
"An elderberry can grow tall enough to shade a small patio."
"The elderberry along the hedge flowers heavily in early summer."
2
The small dark purple fruit of this plant, used in cooking and to flavour drinks.
"She simmered the elderberries into a syrup for winter colds."
"Elderberries are often used to make cordial and wine."
"We picked a bowlful of elderberries to add to the jam."
How to use elderberry
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishElderberry is the name for the elder plant and for the small dark berries it produces.
When to use it
It is an ordinary, everyday word used in gardening and cooking contexts.
Memory tip
The plant is called elder, but its fruit is usually called elderberry, not elder berry as two separate words.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
elderberry syrup
elderberry cordial
pick elderberries
elderberry wine
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They planted an _____ at the bottom of the garden for the birds.
Etymology
The word joins elder, the name of the tree, with berry, referring to its fruit.
Synonyms
View more →
elder
bourtree
Related words
Rhymes for elderberry
See all rhymes for elderberry →Frequently asked questions
What does elderberry mean?
It refers both to the elder shrub or tree itself and to its small dark purple fruit.
What is elderberry used for?
The fruit is commonly used in cooking and in flavouring drinks such as cordial and wine.
Is elderberry the same as elder?
Elder is a synonym for the plant itself, while elderberry can mean either the plant or specifically its fruit.
What is the meaning of elderberry?
"elderberry" (noun) means a shrub or small tree of the genus Sambucus.
