briary

adjective

bri·​ary ˈbrī-ər-ē 

ˈbrīr-ē

variants or less commonly briery

1

: full of briars

a briary thicket

they were excessively wet vines and briery

—D. L. Sharp

2

of wine : having a strong, peppery taste associated with high tannin content

Some will find its earthiness and herbaceousness an attractive complication to the briary berry and spice notes.

—Wine Enthusiast, 31 Dec. 2012

Word History

Etymology

briar entry 1, brier + -y

First Known Use

1549, in the meaning defined at sense 1

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Rhymes for briary

• diary
• fiery
• friary
• priory