alfilerillo

noun

al·​fil·​e·​ri·​llo

(ˈ)al-ˌfi-lə-ˈrē-(ˌ)ō

plural -s

: a Mexican cactus (Pereskiopsis diguetii) used for hedges

Word History

Etymology

American Spanish, alfilerillo, alfilaria

First Known Use

circa 1927, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now