aspen

Etymology 1

From Middle English aspen, corresponding to asp + -en.

adj

1. Pertaining to the asp or aspen tree.
2. (obsolete) Tremulous, trembling.
3. (obsolete) Of a woman's tongue: wagging, gossiping.

Etymology 2

From Middle English aspen, from Old English æspen, Old English æspan (combining form), from Old English æspe (“aspen”). More at asp.

noun

1. The asp tree; a kind of poplar tree (genus Populus sect. Populus). A medium-size tree with thin, straight trunks of a greenish-white color.
   Above a certain elevation, the aspens gave way to scrubby, gnarled pines.
2. (uncountable) The wood of such a tree; usually pale, lightweight and soft.
   She claimed that aspen was the only "proper" material from which make a wicker basket.