Definition of holly fern
: any of certain ferns having fronds of a texture and glossy surface suggesting holly: such as
a
: an evergreen fern (Polystichum lonchitis) of the north temperate zone
b
: a California fern (Polystichum aculeatum) that is often cultivated for ornament
c
: a tropical Old World fern (Cyrtomium aculeatum)
