maple

Definition

A tree of the genus Acer, characterised by its usually palmate leaves and winged seeds.

Etymology

From Middle English mapel, from Old English *mapul (attested in mapultrēow and mapulder), from Proto-West Germanic *mapul. See also Old Saxon mapulder, Old High German mazaltra, mazzaltra; also Old Norse mǫpurr, Middle Low German mapeldorn, dialectal Dutch meppel, German Masseller, Maßholder; also Old English mæsen (“maple”), Old Norse mǫsurr (“maple”), German Maser (“knob, offshoot”); also German Mase (“scar”), modern Maser (“speck, measle”). More at measles.

Example Sentences

• "They have a large maple in their yard."
• "This table is made of maple and also has some fruitwood inlays."
• "A: Mmm, this one is strawberry! What flavor is yours? B: This one is maple! I wonder if any of them will turn out to be pineapple!"