Definition

Noun: 1. A type of willow tree or shrub, especially one characterized by soft, furry catkins that appear in early spring before the leaves. 2. Specifically, the name for several North American willow species (especially Salix discolor) and one European species (Salix caprea), valued for these ornamental catkins.

Usage

The term "pussy willow" is used to refer to the plant itself. It is a common name, not a scientific one. - We picked branches of pussy willow to decorate the house for Easter. - The soft, grey pussy willow catkins are a sure sign that spring is near.

Examples

• The children were delighted by the soft texture of the pussy willow buds.
• She arranged a vase with forsythia and pussy willow.
• Pussy willow branches can be forced to bloom indoors in late winter.

Advanced Usage

• The "pussy" in the name refers to the soft, fur-like appearance of the catkins, which is reminiscent of a kitten's paw.
• In some traditions, pussy willow branches are used in place of palm fronds on Palm Sunday.

Variants and Related Words

• Goat willow: A common name for the European species .
• Glaucous willow: Another name for , the common American pussy willow.
• Catkin: The furry flowering spike produced by willows, birches, and other trees.

Synonyms

• (For the catkin) Fuzzy catkin, bud.
• (For the plant, specific) Goat willow, sallow (UK).

Different Meanings

"Pussy willow" refers exclusively to the plant and its distinctive catkins. It does not have other common meanings in standard English.

Noun

1. much-branched Old World willow having large catkins and relatively large broad leaves
2. small willow of eastern North America having greyish leaves and silky catkins that come before the leaves