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Glite Dictionary
Smilax

Smilax

9.3
A climbing shrub or vine with prickly stems often called greenbrier
  • noun
  • Specialized
translation icon : Smilax
  • Many species of Smilax have thorny stems that make them difficult to handle.

Examples

  • Researchers identified the plant as a member of the Smilax genus.

  • The Smilax plant is known for its climbing ability.

  • The woods were thick with Smilax, making it hard to find a clear path.

  • Many gardeners appreciate Smilax for its unique foliage.

  • The garden was filled with lush smilax vines climbing up the trellis.

  • She admired the beautiful flowers that bloomed on the smilax plants in her backyard.

  • In spring, the smilax twined around the fence, creating a natural green barrier.

Synonyms

genus Smilax
vsSmilax
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of climbing or trailing plants like greenbriers

describes general climbing shrubs and woody vines without family detail

Compounds

genus Smilax
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of climbing or trailing plants like greenbriers

Smilax rotundifolia
  • Specialized
9.9

A very prickly vine with shiny round leaves and clusters of black berries you cannot eat

Smilax aspera
  • Specialized
9.9

A climbing or spreading evergreen plant with spiny stems and shiny leaves

Surface Forms

Smilax singular
Smilaxes plural

Etymology

The word Smilax comes from the ancient Greek word smilax, which meant 'a thorny climbing plant'. So the name fits today: Smilax plants are climbing shrubs and vines with prickly stems.