holly
Syllabification: (hol·ly)
Pronunciation: /ˈhälē/
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Definition of holly
noun
- a widely distributed shrub, typically having prickly dark green leaves, small white flowers, and red berries. There are several deciduous species of holly but the evergreen hollies are more typical and familiar.
- Genus Ilex, family Aquifoliaceae: many species, in particular the American holly (I. opaca), known as the Christmas holly. See also gallberry, winterberry, yaupon
Origin:
Middle English holi, shortened form of Old English holegn, holen, of Germanic origin; related to German Hulst