Main Entry: haw·thorn

Pronunciation: \ˈhȯ-ˌthȯrn\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English hawethorn, from Old English hagathorn, from haga hawthorn + thorn — more at hedge

Date: before 12th century

: any of a genus (Crataegus) of spring-flowering spiny shrubs or small trees of the rose family with glossy and often lobed leaves, white or pink fragrant flowers, and small red fruits

[hawthorn illustration]