white-pine blister rust

noun

: a destructive disease of white pine caused by a rust fungus (Cronartium ribicola) that passes part of its complex life cycle on currant or gooseberry bushes

also : this fungus

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

white-pine blister rust

noun

: a harmful disease of white pine caused by a rust fungus

also : this fungus