buckthorn

noun

buck·​thorn ˈbək-ˌthȯrn 

1

: any of a genus (Rhamnus of the family Rhamnaceae, the buckthorn family) of often thorny trees or shrubs some of which yield purgatives or pigments

2

: a shrub or small tree (Sideroxylon lycioides) of the sapodilla family of the southern U.S.

Examples of buckthorn in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This wildflower prefers high-quality, mature woods where non-native buckthorns are few or absent. —Sheryl De Vore, Chicago Tribune, 31 Mar. 2026

The ethos to cook classic Northern Thai food while embracing local ingredients will remain the same—like use of sea buckthorn in place of tamarind. —Kate Kassin, Bon Appetit Magazine, 26 Mar. 2026

Antioxidant-rich extras like sea buckthorn and vitamin E fend off dullness, and peptides smooth the complexion over time. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 26 Mar. 2026

Most existing trees will remain; dying and invasive species like buckthorn will be removed and new trees, grasses and flowers will be planted, Kinney said. —Talia McWright, Twin Cities, 21 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing buckthorn

• cascara buckthorn

Rhymes for buckthorn

• adorn
• airborne
• blackthorn
• broomcorn
• buckhorn
• careworn
• firstborn
• foodborne
• forborne
• forewarn
• forlorn
• forsworn

Medical Definition

buckthorn

noun

buck·​thorn ˈbək-ˌthȯ(ə)rn 

: a shrub or tree of the genus Rhamnus sometimes having thorny branches and often containing purgative principles in bark or sap and producing fruits sometimes used as a source of yellow and green dyes or pigments compare alder buckthorn, cascara buckthorn