Definition

Noun 1. A large thorny tree: A type of tree, specifically Robinia pseudoacacia, native to the eastern and central United States, characterized by its compound leaves, sharp thorns, and hanging clusters of fragrant white flowers. It is known for its hard wood and has been widely introduced to temperate regions around the world.

Usage Notes

• "Yellow locust" is the common name for a specific species of tree. It is often used in botanical, horticultural, and forestry contexts.
• The term refers to the tree as a whole organism. Its wood is separately called "locust wood."

Examples

• Noun:
  • The old fence post was made from durable yellow locust.
  • In spring, the yellow locust trees are covered in fragrant white blossoms.
  • Many farmers planted yellow locust as a living fence because of its thorns.

Advanced Usage

• The species name is frequently used in scientific and formal writing to avoid confusion with other trees called "locust," such as the honey locust ().
• The tree is noted for its nitrogen-fixing ability, which improves soil quality.

Variants and Related Words

• Black locust: Another very common name for the same tree (), often used interchangeably with "yellow locust." The "yellow" refers to the color of its heartwood.
• Locust wood: The hard, decay-resistant timber from this tree.
• Robinia: The genus name for this group of trees and shrubs.

Synonyms

• Black locust (n): The most direct synonym.
• False acacia (n): A name used chiefly in Europe, referencing its similarity to true acacias.
• Robinia pseudoacacia (n): The formal botanical Latin name.

Idioms and Fixed Phrases

• (As) hard as locust: An idiom describing something very tough or durable, derived from the hardness of yellow/black locust wood.
  • That old pioneer's spirit was as hard as locust.

Noun

1. large thorny tree of eastern and central United States having pinnately compound leaves and drooping racemes of white flowers; widely naturalized in many varieties in temperate regions