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Holly: meaning, definitions and examples

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holly

 

[ หˆhษ‘หli ]

Noun
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.

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 origin

The word 'holly' comes from the Old English word 'holegn', which is derived from the Proto-Germanic '*huljan', reflecting the plant's long history in various cultural traditions. Holly has been a significant symbol since ancient times, especially among the Celts, who believed it possessed protective qualities. Over millennia, various species of holly have been used for their ornamental value, particularly the American holly (Ilex opaca) and the European holly (Ilex aquifolium). Holly's association with Christmas originated in the early Christian church as a way to incorporate pagan symbols into Christian traditions. Its use in Christmas decorations became widespread in Victorian times, and it remains a popular symbol of the holiday season, often associated with warmth, joy, and family gatherings.

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.