Definition

Noun: 1. A type of desert shrub: A specific shrub native to arid regions, notably Syria and Arabia, characterized by small white flowers. It is historically significant as the plant referred to as "juniper" in the Old Testament of the Bible. Botanically, it is sometimes classified under the genus Genista.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The sparse landscape was dotted with hardy juniper bush.
  • Scholars believe the juniper bush mentioned in the biblical story provided meager shade.
  • This particular juniper bush is adapted to survive with very little water.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Biblical Reference: The term is primarily used in historical, botanical, or religious contexts to refer to the specific shrub believed to be the "juniper" of the Old Testament (e.g., 1 Kings 19:4-5), rather than the common evergreen trees of the genus .
  • The prophet Elijah rested under a juniper bush.

Variants and Related Words

• Juniper (noun): More commonly refers to any of various evergreen trees and shrubs of the genus , whose berries are used to flavor gin. This is distinct from the "juniper bush" defined here.
• Broom (noun): A common name for shrubs in the genera and , which are related to the juniper bush when it is classified as .

Synonyms

• Retama raetam (noun): The modern botanical name for this plant.
• White broom (noun): A descriptive common name.
• Desert broom (noun): A descriptive common name highlighting its habitat.

Noun

1. desert shrub of Syria and Arabia having small white flowers; constitutes the juniper of the Old Testament; sometimes placed in genus Genista