wood of any of various alder trees; resistant to underwater rot; used for bridges etc
"The old bridge was reinforced with solid blocks of alder because its resistance to water makes it perfect for foundations."
north temperate shrubs or trees having toothed leaves and conelike fruit; bark is used in tanning and dyeing and the wood is rot-resistant
"The craftsman chose a piece of alder for the boat's hull because its naturally rot-resistant wood would withstand years on the water."
Any of several trees or shrubs of the genus Alnus, belonging to the birch family.
"The city council announced that the new mayor will be sworn in by Alderman Jones next Tuesday."
An alderman or alderwoman.
A topographic surname, from Middle English for someone who lived by alder trees.
"During our genealogy research, we discovered that my great-grandfather adopted the surname Alder because his family home was situated right next to a grove of those distinctive trees."