vlierbes
feminine
The English word 'elderberry' is translated into Dutch as vlierbes.
vlierbes refers to the fruit of the elder tree.
Meaning: fruit (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound consisting of vlier, meaning elder (the tree) and bes, meaning berry.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of vlierbes is vlierbessen. The noun vlierbes is feminine.
Did you know?
- In Dutch folklore, the vlier was once believed to be a dwelling for spirits, and cutting the tree down without asking permission was thought to bring bad luck.
- While vlierbes is the fruit, the Dutch use the word vlierbloesem for the elderflower, which is the primary ingredient in a popular summer cordial.
- In the Netherlands, vlierbes syrup is a nostalgic childhood staple often used as a traditional remedy for colds and coughs.
Examples in context
- Ik hou van vlierbessensap.I love elderberry juice.This sentence is useful for expressing a preference for juice made from vlierbes.Tatoeba #1478101 by Citrine, translation #1475901 by niceguydave
- Ik wil graag vlierbessenjam kopenI would like to buy elderberry jam
- Vlierbessen zijn niet alleen heerlijk, maar ook rijk aan antioxidanten.Elderberries are not only delicious but also rich in antioxidants.
- De vlierbes is erg klein.The elderberry is very small.
Example conversation
Noah and Julia are walking in a garden.
- NoahKijk, daar groeit een vlierbes!Look, an elderberry is growing there!
- JuliaIs dat fruit eetbaar, Noah?Is that fruit edible, Noah?
- NoahJa, maar niet rauw.Yes, but not raw.
- JuliaDan pluk ik er een paar.Then I will pick a few.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “elderberry” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
