sapling

noun

sap·​ling ˈsa-pliŋ How to pronounce sapling (audio)
-plən
1
: a young tree
specifically : one not over four inches (about 10 centimeters) in diameter at breast height
2
: youth sense 2a

Examples of sapling in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Except, in this case, the sapling could throw a fastball at more than a hundred miles per hour. — Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 17 May 2026 But in a suitable location and with basic care, young peach saplings grow quickly. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 30 May 2026 The facility had been recently painted salmon pink with fresh saplings planted around the perimeter. — ABC News, 23 Apr. 2026 Only six trees are currently growing on the island, but there are 100 saplings in a greenhouse that will be planted. — Madeline Montgomery, CBS News, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for sapling

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sapling was in the 14th century

Rhymes for sapling

See All Rhymes for sapling

Browse Nearby Words

sapless
sapling
saplinghood
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sapling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sapling. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

sapling

noun
sap·​ling ˈsap-liŋ How to pronounce sapling (audio)
: a young tree

More from Merriam-Webster on sapling

Nglish: Translation of sapling for Spanish Speakers

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