Search Dictionary
Definition of alder

alder

/ˈɔːl.dər/
al · der

Plural:alders
JUMP TO:

alder Lexical Profile

alder Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A widely distributed tree or shrub of the birch family (genus Alnus), typically growing in moist or swampy areas and characterized by toothed leaves and small, cone-like catkins.

Example

"We planted a row of alders along the stream to help stabilize the muddy banks."


2

The distinctively pale wood of the alder tree, which turns reddish-brown when exposed to air and is frequently used in cabinetry and instrument making.

Example

"The luthier selected a beautifully grained piece of alder for the body of the custom electric guitar."

• Rhymes for alder

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English 'alor', derived from the Proto-Germanic '*alizō' and rooted in the Proto-Indo-European '*el-', meaning 'red' or 'brown', referring to the reddish color of the tree's wood when freshly cut.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Alder. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/alder
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Dictionary & Reference
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.