Washington thorn

noun

: a hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum) of eastern North America that is often cultivated for its bright-red fruit and showy autumn foliage

Word History

Etymology

from Washington, D.C., capital city of the U.S.

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 Washington thorn

Cite this Entry

“Washington thorn.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Washington%20thorn. Accessed 24 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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