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

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

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)

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.