bird cherry
Definition
Noun 1. A type of small-fruited cherry tree: Bird cherry refers to any of several species of cherry trees (genus Prunus subgenus Padus) that produce small, often astringent fruits. These trees are commonly frequented by birds, which eat the fruits.
Examples of Usage
- Prunus padus
Advanced Usage
- As a modifier: The term can be used attributively to specify the type of cherry or tree.
- The forest understory included bird cherry saplings.
Variants and Related Words
- Bird cherry tree: A more explicit, full form of the noun.
- Hackberry ( species): While also a tree with bird-attracting berries, this is a different genus and not a true cherry. It is a related concept due to its ecological role for birds.
- Chokecherry (): A specific North American species within the group of plants often called bird cherries.
Synonyms
- Wild cherry: A general term that can sometimes refer to bird cherry species, though it may also refer to other uncultivated cherry trees.
- Prunus padus: The scientific name for the European bird cherry, a specific species.
Notes on Meaning
The term "bird cherry" primarily denotes the tree itself. Its defining characteristics are its small fruits and its ecological association with birds, which are key dispersers of its seeds. The fruit is typically not considered palatable for humans when raw due to its astringency but is an important food source for wildlife.
Noun
-
any of several small-fruited cherry trees frequented or fed on by birds
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