Judas tree

noun

: any of a genus (Cercis) of leguminous trees and shrubs (such as a redbud) often cultivated for their showy flowers
especially : a Eurasian tree or shrub (C. siliquastrum) with purplish pink flowers

Word History

Etymology

from the belief that Judas Iscariot hanged himself from a tree of this kind

First Known Use

1668, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Judas tree was in 1668

Dictionary Entries Near Judas tree

Cite this Entry

“Judas tree.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Judas%20tree. Accessed 18 Nov. 2024.

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