# linden

/ˈɫɪndən/ (US) · /lˈɪndən/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/linden
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a type of large tree with heart-shaped leaves and sweet-smelling yellow flowers. In North America, people often call this tree a basswood.

For teachers: any tree of the genus Tilia, characterized by heart-shaped leaves and fragrant, pale-yellow flowers. Often referred to as lime trees in British English and basswood in North American English.

## Examples

- The linden tree provides plenty of shade in the summer.
- The street was lined with ancient linden trees that filled the air with a heavy, sweet scent every June.
- Schubert's famous song cycle includes a piece about a linden tree, which served as a powerful symbol of memory and longing in German Romantic literature.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier before other nouns, such as 'linden honey' or 'linden blossom'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.