birdlime

noun

bird·​lime ˈbərd-ˌlīm How to pronounce birdlime (audio)
1
: a sticky substance usually made from the bark of a holly (Ilex aquifolium) that is smeared on twigs to snare small birds
2
: something that ensnares
birdlime transitive verb

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of birdlime was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near birdlime

Cite this Entry

“Birdlime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/birdlime. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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