smilax

noun

smi·​lax ˈsmī-ˌlaks 

1

: greenbrier

2

: a tender twining asparagus (Asparagus asparagoides) of southern Africa that has ovate bright green cladophylls which are often used in floral arrangements

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

The front of the stage was draped with ivy and smilax and a profusion of flowers addend much to the scenic effect. —San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 June 2022

That list includes but is not limited to honeysuckle, Carolina snailseed, poison ivy, smilax and bindweed. —Howard Garrett, Dallas News, 2 Aug. 2021

Meanwhile, the ceiling was lined with smilax and Italian ruscus greenery. —Alexandra Macon, Vogue, 24 May 2018

Word History

Etymology

Latin, bindweed, yew, from Greek

First Known Use

1551, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

Smilax

noun

Smi·​lax ˈsmī-ˌlaks 

: a large widely distributed genus of plants of the lily family (Liliaceae) which includes the sarsaparillas