Definition of ivy
ivies
1 : a widely cultivated ornamental climbing or prostrate or sometimes shrubby chiefly Eurasian vine (Hedera helix) of the ginseng family with evergreen leaves, small yellowish flowers, and black berries
2 : any of several climbing plants (such as Virginia creeper) resembling ivy; especially : poison ivy
3 often capitalized : an Ivy League college
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Illustration of ivy
Origin and Etymology of ivy
Middle English, from Old English īfig; akin to Old High German ebah ivy
First Known Use: before 12th century
Origin and Etymology of ivy
from the prevalence of ivy-covered buildings on the campuses of older U.S. colleges
First Known Use: 1933
IVY Defined for English Language Learners
ivy
playDefinition of ivy for English Language Learners
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: a plant that has long stems and that often grows on the outsides of buildings
IVY Defined for Kids
ivy
playDefinition of ivy for Students
ivies
1 : a climbing vine with evergreen leaves and black berries often found growing on buildings
2 : a climbing plant that resembles ivy
Learn More about ivy
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Spanish Central: Translation of ivy Nglish: Translation of ivy for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of ivy for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about ivy
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