(el′dər) noun
1. A shrub (genus Sambucus) of the honeysuckle family, with white flowers and purple-black or red berries; the roots of some species contain a very poisonous alkaloid, but the flowers and berries are often used in medicine.
2. Any one of various trees or plants resembling elder: the poison elder (Rhus vernix). [OE ellærn]

(el′dər) adjective
1. Having lived longer; earlier born.
2. Senior: alternative comparative of old.
3. Earlier in time.
4. Prior in rank.
—noun
1. A prince or head of a tribe or family.
2. A church officer or minister.
3. An older or aged person.
4. An ancestor. [OE eldra]
—eld′er·ship noun