buckthorn

noun

buck·​thorn ˈbək-ˌthȯrn How to pronounce buckthorn (audio)
1
: any of a genus (Rhamnus of the family Rhamnaceae, the buckthorn family) of often thorny trees or shrubs some of which yield purgatives or pigments
2
: a shrub or small tree (Bumelia lycioides) of the sapodilla family of the southern U.S.

Examples of buckthorn in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This hydrating treatment has gained a cult following for its ability to transform your locks using nourishing ingredients like seed oils and buckthorn berries. Kirsten Chanel Webber, Rolling Stone, 30 Aug. 2024 Invasive buckthorn has taken over the trails that meander through the wooded stand in McGovern Park. Caitlin Looby, Journal Sentinel, 6 Aug. 2024 Plus, a blend of sea buckthorn, ferulic acid, and lingonberry provide antioxidant protection against UVA/UVB rays, pollution, and blue light. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 11 Aug. 2024 On a muggy late July morning, Jacob Sanchez stood in front of a dense stand of invasive buckthorn in McGovern Park and pulled down a towering branch of the shrub. Crew members from Cream City Conservation Corps looked on, calling out ways to identify the invader. Caitlin Looby, Journal Sentinel, 6 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for buckthorn 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'buckthorn.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of buckthorn was in 1578

Dictionary Entries Near buckthorn

Cite this Entry

“Buckthorn.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/buckthorn. Accessed 17 Sep. 2024.

Medical Definition

buckthorn

noun
buck·​thorn ˈbək-ˌthȯ(ə)rn How to pronounce buckthorn (audio)
: a shrub or tree of the genus Rhamnus sometimes having thorny branches and often containing purgative principles in bark or sap and producing fruits sometimes used as a source of yellow and green dyes or pigments see cascara buckthorn

More from Merriam-Webster on buckthorn

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