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Definition of sambucus

sambucus

/sæmˈbjuːkəs/
sam · bu · cus
Plural:sambucuses
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sambucus Lexical Profile

• noun

1

Any deciduous flowering shrub or small tree of the genus Sambucus (family Adoxaceae),commonly known as elder or elderberry, widespread across temperate and subtropical regions and cultivated for its pinnate foliage, flat-topped or dome-shaped clusters of fragrant creamy-white or pale pink blossoms, and small dark berries.

Synonyms
View all synonyms for sambucus

• Rhymes for sambucus

• Nearby Words

sambal
sambar
sambuca
sambucus
same
sameness
samey

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed directly from classical Latin 'sambucus', meaning elder tree, possibly linked to 'sambuca', an ancient stringed musical instrument or flute traditionally crafted from hollow elder wood.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sambucus. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 6, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sambucus
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