buckthorn

noun

buck·thorn | \ ˈbək-ˌthȯrn

Definition of buckthorn

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.

Example Sentences Phrases Containing buckthorn Learn More About buckthorn

Examples of buckthorn in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web More recently, goats have been deployed—a lone grazer can devour 300 square feet of invasive buckthorn per day. — Jon Waterman, Outside Online, 15 June 2020 Each year Tim and Linda spend many days removing garlic mustard and buckthorn. — Paul A. Smith, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 2 May 2022 Goss said no threatened or endangered species have been found on the land, and the invasive buckthorn that covers the property would be taken out, an important restoration tool for the forest preserve. — Sheryl Devore, chicagotribune.com, 20 Feb. 2022 Others seek his advice about the invasive buckthorn in their own yards. — Gail Rosenblum, Star Tribune, 16 Apr. 2021 Re-establishing native plants in the buckthorn's place is crucial. — Gail Rosenblum, Star Tribune, 16 Apr. 2021 When the buckthorn is gone, the Rotary and land trust hope new native trees will grow in their place, which will not only look better but will also improve the biodiversity of the park. — Jeff Rumage, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 24 June 2020 After a group of volunteers got to work in Deerfield’s Briarwood Nature Area and Trail Tree Nature Area recently, the spot now boasts 12 new trees and less invasive buckthorn. — Steve Sadin, chicagotribune.com, 18 Oct. 2019 The perfect pick for tired, puffy eyes, this treatment packs 7 different organic oils, including anti-inflammatory rosehip oil, firming sea buckthorn oil, and hydrating avocado oil. — Braelyn Wood, Health.com, 4 Apr. 2020 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'buckthorn.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Learn More About buckthorn

Dictionary Entries Near buckthorn

buck the system

buckthorn

buckthorn aphid

Statistics for buckthorn

Cite this Entry

“Buckthorn.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/buckthorn. Accessed 8 Aug. 2022.

Style: MLA

MLA

Chicago

APA

Merriam-Webster Check Mark Icon

More Definitions for buckthorn

buckthorn

noun

buck·thorn | \ ˈbək-ˌthȯ(ə)rn

Medical Definition of buckthorn

: 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