Alder (Noun)
Meaning 1
North temperate shrubs or trees having toothed leaves and conelike fruit; bark is used in tanning and dyeing and the wood is rot-resistant.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The red alder is a common tree found in wetlands along rivers and streams in the Pacific Northwest region of North America.
- Alder was traditionally used in medieval Europe to make clogs due to its resistance to decay under wet conditions.
- The bark of black alder has been used for centuries to produce a natural dye, which ranges from deep orange to dark brown.
- Mountain alder can grow up to 30 feet tall and is often found in subalpine regions with acidic soils.
- Several species of alder are used in land reclamation projects because they can withstand and stabilize poor soils and help to purify water.
Synonyms
Hyponyms
Meaning 2
Wood of any of various alder trees; resistant to underwater rot; used for bridges etc.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The old wooden bridge was made from sturdy alder, which withstood the test of time and harsh underwater conditions.
- Engineers often choose alder for underwater construction projects due to its natural resistance to rot and decay.
- Alder has long been prized for its durability, making it an excellent material for building wharves and seawalls.
- Several centuries-old buildings in Europe still feature alder beams, testifying to the wood's remarkable resistance to underwater rot.
- Boatbuilders sometimes use alder to craft components that are frequently exposed to water, such as dock pilings and posts.