Virginia creeper

noun

1. a climbing plant, Parthenocissus quinquefolia, of the grape family, native to North America, having palmate leaves, usually with five leaflets, and bluish-black berries.

Virginia creeper

noun

1. Also called (US)American ivywoodbine a vitaceous woody vine, Parthenocissus quinquefolia, of North America, having tendrils with adhesive tips, bluish-black berry-like fruits, and compound leaves that turn red in autumn: widely planted for ornament
2. Also calledJapanese ivy a similar related plant, Parthenocissus tricuspidata, of SE Asia, having trilobed leaves and purple berries US nameBoston ivy

Word History and Origins

Origin of Virginia creeper¹

An Americanism dating back to 1660–70

Example Sentences

The shadows of the Virginia creeper fell on the red pavement, and Kitty's light voice was heard on the staircase.

From Project Gutenberg

He gives twenty-one species under this genus of which nine are American, one, however, being our Virginia creeper.

From Project Gutenberg

Unc Simmy swung his steed through a ruined gateway where the Virginia creeper and honeysuckle hid the gateposts and wall.

From Project Gutenberg

Setting his teeth determinedly, Ralph Wonderson swarmed up the Virginia-creeper until he reached the closely-shuttered window.

From Project Gutenberg

The bit of Virginia-creeper planted under the window hung shriveled upon its trellis.

From Project Gutenberg