catbrier

American  

[kat-brahy-er] / ˈkætˌbraɪ ər /

noun

1. any prickly vine of the genus Smilax, especially S. rotundifolia, of eastern North America, growing in tangled masses.

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Etymology

Origin of catbrier

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40; cat ( def. ) + brier ¹

Example Sentences

In autumn and early winter, cedar and honeysuckle berries, the grape-like cluster of fruit of the poison ivy, bittersweet and catbrier berries are all consumed according to their needs.

From Ohio Arbor Day 1913: Arbor and Bird Day Manual Issued for the Benefit of the Schools of our State by Clifton, Grace R.

In the common catbrier or smilax we see two slender thread-like tendrils growing from the base of each leaf.

From Eye Spy Afield with Nature Among Flowers and Animate Things by Gibson, W. Hamilton (William Hamilton)

Then he indulges in a fit of merriment at his own jokes—'chatter-chatter-chat-chat-chat-chat-chat' he says, calling his own name as he slips away to the security of a catbrier or barberry bush.

From Citizen Bird Scenes from Bird-Life in Plain English for Beginners by Fuertes, Louis Agassiz