juniper

noun

ju·​ni·​per ˈjü-nə-pər 

1

a

: any of numerous shrubs or trees (genus Juniperus) of the cypress family with leaves resembling needles or scales and female cones usually resembling berries

b

: the berrylike cone or fruit of a juniper

especially : the bluish one of a common juniper (J. communis) which is used to flavor foods and from which is obtained an acrid essential oil used especially as a flavoring in gin and liqueurs

called also juniper berry

2

: any of several coniferous trees resembling true junipers

Examples of juniper in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The earthiness of Gypsy Water’s juniper and vanilla mix beautifully with Signature’s blackberry and cedarwood base, resulting in a captivating fragrance that feels both familiar and unexpected. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 3 Oct. 2024

This aging process adds depth to the gin, layering in new flavors without overpowering the core botanicals like juniper and rosemary. —Emily Price, Forbes, 2 Oct. 2024

The research indicates the two cities produced iron or steel to sell, as well as providing fuel for Silk Road travelers, with the region being surrounded by dense juniper forests. —Hannah Peart, NBC News, 24 Oct. 2024

Expect an uptick in bear activity before that as the bears will be scouring for food like manzanita berries, juniper berries and oak, according to Game and Fish. —Zach Bradshaw, The Arizona Republic, 23 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English junipere, from Latin juniperus

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing juniper

• juniper tar

Kids Definition

juniper

noun

ju·​ni·​per ˈjü-nə-pər 

1

a

: any of numerous evergreen shrubs and trees that are related to the pines but produce female cones resembling berries

b

: the berrylike cone or fruit of a juniper

2

: any of various evergreen trees resembling true junipers

Medical Definition

juniper

noun

ju·​ni·​per ˈjü-nə-pər 

: an evergreen shrub or tree (genus Juniperus) of the cypress family (Cupressaceae)

especially : one having a prostrate or shrubby habit (as Juniperus communis)