kudzu

noun

kud·​zu ˈku̇d-(ˌ)zü  ˈkəd- 

: a fast-growing Asian vine (Pueraria montana) of the legume family that is used for forage and erosion control and is often a serious weed in the southeastern U.S.

Examples of kudzu in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Now, in the South, the words on a commemorative marker could go one of two ways: florid poetry that winds like kudzu vines, or something restrained, almost elegant in its simplicity. —Aj Willingham, AJC.com, 25 Apr. 2026

Murals of orange candleflower, Callery pear, kudzu and other plants dot the sides of buildings in the Wicker Park, North Center and other North and West Side neighborhoods. —Chicago Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026

Like the beloved barbecue, sweet tea, and gracious hospitality the South is known for, kudzu has regrettably become part of the culture. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 20 Apr. 2026

To control costs, government regulations and mandates grow like kudzu. —Steve Forbes, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Japanese kuzu

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

kudzu

noun

kud·​zu ˈku̇d-zü 

: a fast-growing trailing Asian vine that is related to the pea, is grown for grazing and for erosion control, and is often a serious weed in the southeastern U.S.