bird cherry

[ burd cher-ee ]

noun

1. any of several species of cherry, especially Prunus padus European bird cherry, of Europe and Asia, and P. pensylvanica pin cherry, of the U.S.
2. the fruit of any such tree, for which birds have a particular liking.

bird cherry

noun

1. See cherry
   a small Eurasian rosaceous tree, Prunus padus , with clusters of white flowers and small black fruits See also cherry

Word History and Origins

Origin of bird cherry¹

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

Perhaps we shall find that our bird cherry (Prunus Pennsylvanica) is best suited for our use.

From Project Gutenberg

The name is sometimes applied to a small bird cherry in Europe.

From Project Gutenberg

It profits by severe burning, as some other trees of the United States do, such as paper birch and bird cherry.

From Project Gutenberg

The mountain-ash and the bird-cherry were in bloom; the light, sticky leaves of the aspen were just out.

From Project Gutenberg

Hagberry, hag′ber-i, n. the bird-cherry—sometimes Hack′berry.

From Project Gutenberg