Glastonbury thorn

noun

: a hawthorn that is a variety (Crataegus monogyna praecox) of a common Old World hawthorn

Word History

Etymology

Glastonbury, Somersetshire, England; so called from a popular belief that it sprang up at Glastonbury from the staff of Joseph of Arimathea (Matthew 27:57–60)

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

Dictionary Entries Near Glastonbury thorn

Cite this Entry

“Glastonbury thorn.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Glastonbury%20thorn. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!