Alamo
UK: ˈæləməʊ | US: ˈæləmoʊ
n. 1. A poplar tree, specifically the cottonwood (Populus deltoides), native to the southwestern U.S. and Mexico.
n. 2. (historical) A mission-fortress in San Antonio, Texas, site of a famous 1836 battle during the Texas Revolution.
The word "alamo" comes directly from Spanish álamo, meaning "poplar tree." It traces back to Latin populus (poplar tree), likely via Vulgar Latin albarus (white poplar). The term gained historical significance when the San Antonio mission (originally named Misión San Antonio de Valero) was nicknamed "Alamo" due to the surrounding cottonwood trees. The battle's fame cemented "Alamo" as a symbol of resistance in U.S. culture.
The riverbank was shaded by tall alamo trees.
Visitors to San Antonio often tour the Alamo to learn about Texas history.
The Alamo's defenders became legendary figures in American folklore.
Spanish settlers planted alamos to mark water sources in arid regions.
"Remember the Alamo!" became a rallying cry during the Texas Revolution.