pussy willow

[ poos-ee ]

noun

1. a small willow, Salix discolor, of eastern North America, having silky catkins.
2. any of various similar willows.

pussy willow

/ ˈpʊsɪ /

noun

1. a willow tree that produces silvery silky catkins, esp Salix caprea or S. cinerea in Britain or S. discolor in North America
2. any of various similar willows

Word History and Origins

Origin of pussy willow¹

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70

Example Sentences

And there's another reason for it beside my pussy willow maid's romance!

From Project Gutenberg

The last named bore a pink fuzzy blossom, not unlike pussy-willow, which was quite fragrant.

From Project Gutenberg

Choose a large pussy-willow for this mouse, ruffle the fur up on top of the head and it will look like ears.

From Project Gutenberg

One bright day in February I found a pussy-willow tree, with its deep purple buds showing not a hint of the life within.

From Project Gutenberg

The smartest down-town flower shops are offering pussy willow boughs for table decoration.

From Project Gutenberg