Definition

A type of shrub or small tree that belongs to the Rhamnus genus, often with thorns, and includes some species used for decoration or medicine.

Example

The garden was filled with beautiful buckthorn plants that added a unique touch to the landscape.

Conversation

I saw a really interesting plant at the park yesterday.

Oh really? What was it?

It was a buckthorn shrub, and it had these beautiful berries on it.

That sounds cool! I've heard buckthorn can be quite useful in gardens.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Buckthorn is derived from the Old English "bucca" (meaning buck or male deer) and "thorn" (meaning thorny plant). The word refers to a thorny shrub that is often associated with the habitat of deer.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'buck' (a male deer) and 'thorn' (a thorny plant) to remember that buckthorn is a thorny plant often found in areas where deer roam.

Visually Confused Words