Definition

Noun: 1. A common shrub or small tree: A woody plant, specifically the common elder (Sambucus nigra), native to Europe and Asia, known for its clusters of small, creamy-white flowers and dark berries. 2. A source for culinary use: The plant whose fruit (berries) is traditionally used in making wines, jellies, syrups, and other preserves.

Examples

• The bourtree at the edge of the field was heavy with ripe, black fruit.
• For generations, my grandmother has made a delicious jelly from the berries of the bourtree.
• In late spring, the fragrant flowers of the bourtree fill the air.

Advanced Usage

• The term bourtree is chiefly used in Scotland and Northern England. In most other English dialects, the common names elder or elderberry tree are preferred.
• In botanical and horticultural contexts, the Latin binomial is used for precise identification.

Variants and Related Words

• Elder (n.): The more common general term for trees and shrubs of the genus .
• Elderberry (n.): Refers specifically to the fruit of the elder tree, often used for the plant itself.
• Elderflower (n.): Refers to the fragrant white flowers of the plant, used to make cordials and teas.

Synonyms

• Elder
• Elderberry tree
• Black elder
• European elder

Related Phrases

• Bourtree bark: The bark of the elder tree, sometimes referenced in traditional remedies.
• Bourtree berries: A direct reference to the fruit of the plant.

Noun

1. a common shrub with black fruit or a small tree of Europe and Asia; fruit used for wines and jellies