Virginia creeper

noun

: a common North American tendril-climbing vine (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) of the grape family with palmately compound leaves and bluish-black berries

called also woodbine

Examples of Virginia creeper in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This list includes invasive species that spread across the landscape, smothering everything in their path (like kudzu, of course), as well as fast-growing native species, like trumpet vine and Virginia creeper, which spread quickly and can become a nuisance in yards and gardens. Steve Bender, Southern Living, 19 Feb. 2026 Just cut a 1- to 2-inch hole near the gourd's neck, then hollow out enough space for fall flowers such as mums, black-eyed Susans, and Virginia creeper. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Sep. 2025 Shenandoah National Park, Virginia When to see peak fall foliage: Mid-September to late October, depending on elevation In the high mountains around Swift Run Gap and Lewis Mountain, Virginia creeper turns wine red and maples begin to flame toward mid- or late September. Chloe Arrojado, AFAR Media, 25 Aug. 2025 Chambers bitters, , Virginia creeper, rattan vine and mulberry weed are horrible! arkansasonline.com, 14 July 2025 They’re supported by an understory of grapevines, sumac and Virginia creeper in a tangle of varying hues. Laura Daniella Sepulveda, The Arizona Republic, 25 Sep. 2024 Native perennials such as pokeweed and Virginia creeper are also good sources of healthy fuel. Tovah Martin, Washington Post, 16 Nov. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1704, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Virginia creeper was in 1704

Cite this Entry

“Virginia creeper.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Virginia%20creeper. Accessed 22 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

Virginia creeper

noun
Vir·​gin·​ia creeper
vər-ˌjin-yə-
-ˌjin-ē-ə-
: a common North American climbing vine related to the grape and having leaves with five leaflets and bluish black berries

called also woodbine

More from Merriam-Webster on Virginia creeper

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster