yew
Pronunciation: /juː/
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Definition of yew
noun
- (also yew tree) a coniferous tree which has red berry-like fruits, and most parts of which are highly poisonous. Yews are linked with folklore and superstition and can live to a great age; the timber is used in cabinetmaking and (formerly) to make longbows.
- Genus Taxus, family Taxaceae: several species, in particular T. baccata of Europe
Origin:
Old English īw, ēow, of Germanic origin