/lin"deuhn/ , n.
1. any tree of the genus Tilia, as T. americana (American linden) or T. europaea (European linden) , having fragrant yellowish-white flowers and heart-shaped leaves, grown as an ornamental or shade tree. Cf. linden family .
2. the soft, light, white wood of any of these trees, used for making furniture and in the construction of houses, boxes, etc.
[ 1570-80; n. use of obs. linden (adj.) of the lime tree, ME, OE. See LIME 3 , -EN 2 ]