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Holly: meaning, definitions and examples

๐ŸŒฟ
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holly

 

[หˆhษ‘หli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

plant type

Holly is a type of shrub or tree belonging to the genus Ilex, known for its glossy green leaves and red berries. It is commonly used in holiday decorations, particularly during Christmas, due to its festive appearance.

Synonyms

Christmas holly, Ilex.

Examples of usage

  • The holly on the mantelpiece adds a festive touch to the room.
  • We gathered holly from the garden to decorate the front door.
  • Holly leaves are often used in wreaths and garlands.
  • Holly bushes provide shelter for various birds during winter.
Context #2 | Noun

symbol of Christmas

In many cultures, holly is considered a symbol of Christmas and winter solstice celebrations. It represents protection, goodwill, and the promise of light during the dark winter months.

Synonyms

Christmas decoration, Yuletide plant.

Examples of usage

  • The ancient Romans used holly in their winter solstice celebrations.
  • Holly is seen as a symbol of peace and goodwill during the holiday season.
  • In folklore, holly is believed to ward off evil spirits.
  • People often use holly to decorate their homes for Christmas.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'holly' comes from the Old English 'hoh', related to the plant's sharp leaves.
  • In Latin, itโ€™s called 'Ilex', which refers to a tree with similar characteristics.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, holly represents peace and goodwill during the winter season.
  • The Druids of ancient Britain considered holly a sacred plant, symbolizing protection during winter.

Botanical Facts

  • Holly plants can grow into trees or shrubs, with some species reaching up to 50 feet tall.
  • The bright red berries are not typically eaten by humans as they are toxic but are a food source for birds in winter.

Art and Literature

  • Holly has been featured in various Christmas carols and literature as a symbol of holiday spirit.
  • In traditional Christmas decorations, holly is often seen in paintings, illustrations, and crafts.

Celebrations

  • Holly is often used in wreaths and arrangements during the Christmas season, symbolizing joy and celebration.
  • The popular Christmas song 'The Holly and the Ivy' highlights the plant's connection to festive traditions.

Translations

Translations of the word "holly" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น santo

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคชเคตเคฟเคคเฅเคฐ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช heilig

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ suci

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ัะฒัั‚ะธะน

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ ล›wiฤ™ty

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ่–ใชใ‚‹

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท sacrรฉ

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ santo

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท kutsal

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๊ฑฐ๋ฃฉํ•œ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู‚ุฏูŠุณ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ svatรฝ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ svรคtรฝ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ็ฅžๅœฃ็š„

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ svet

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ heilagur

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ า›ะฐัะธะตั‚ั‚ั–

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒฌแƒ›แƒ˜แƒœแƒ“แƒ

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ mรผqษ™ddษ™s

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ santo

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,843, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.