pussy-willow
Noun: A type of small willow tree (genus Salix), especially the goat willow (Salix caprea) or the American pussy willow (Salix discolor), known for its soft, fuzzy, silvery catkins that appear in early spring before the leaves. The term "pussy-willow" refers both to the tree itself and to its distinctive catkins.
- (The tree itself, showing its characteristic early spring blooms.)
- (The catkin-bearing branches used for decoration.)
- (The fuzzy flower clusters of the tree.)
"pussy-willow catkins": the specific fuzzy flower clusters of the tree.
- The pussy-willow catkins are among the first signs of spring in cold climates. (The early-blooming soft flowers.)
"pussy-willow season": the short period in late winter or early spring when the catkins appear.
- Pussy-willow season is brief but eagerly anticipated by gardeners. (The time when the tree's catkins are visible.)
Pussy willow (n, alternative spelling): same meaning, often written as two words without a hyphen.
- The pussy willow is a popular ornamental tree in northern gardens.
Willow (n): the broader genus of trees and shrubs to which pussy-willow belongs.
- Willows are known for their flexible branches and water-loving roots.
- Goat willow: a common name for , one species of pussy-willow.
- American pussy willow: a common name for , native to North America.
- Catkin willow: a descriptive term referring to the tree's catkins.
"Soft as a pussy-willow": a simile meaning extremely soft or gentle.
- The kitten's fur was as soft as a pussy-willow. (Very soft to the touch.)
"Pussy-willow spring": a poetic phrase for the early, tentative arrival of spring.
- The first pussy-willow spring brought hope after a long winter. (The season marked by the tree's blooming.)