Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of tree or shrub: "holly" refers to any tree or shrub belonging to the genus Ilex, characterized by shiny, dark green, often prickly leaves and bright red berries.
   • The foliage or branches of such a plant: "holly" can also refer to the sprigs or branches of this plant, commonly used as a Christmas decoration.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The garden was bordered by tall holly bushes.
  • They decorated the mantelpiece with holly and ivy for the holidays.

Advanced Usage

• "Holly and ivy": A traditional pairing of plants used in winter and Christmas decorations, symbolizing different themes.
  • The classic Christmas carol "The Holly and the Ivy" celebrates these plants.

Variants and Related Words

• Hollywood (Proper noun): A district in Los Angeles famous as the center of the American film industry. (Note: This is a compound proper noun, not a direct variant of "holly").
• Ilex (Noun): The scientific genus name for holly plants.

Synonyms

• Ilex: The botanical genus name.
• Evergreen: A general term for plants that retain green leaves throughout the year, which includes holly.

Related Phrases

• Sea holly (Noun): A common name for plants in the genus , which are not true hollies but have spiny leaves and are sometimes used in similar decorative contexts.
  • The blue flowers of sea holly added texture to the floral arrangement.

Related Idioms

Noun

1. United States rock star (1936-1959)
2. any tree or shrub of the genus Ilex having red berries and shiny evergreen leaves with prickly edges