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Shrubby Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shrubby

[ˈʃrʌbi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

describing plants

Shrubby describes plants that are bushy and characterized by dense, woody vegetation. It usually refers to plants that are low in stature and have multiple stems arising from the base. Shrubby plants often serve as a perfect habitat for wildlife and are commonly found in gardens and landscapes.

Synonyms

brambly, bushy, woody.

Examples of usage

  • The garden is filled with shrubby plants that attract various birds.
  • Shrubby areas provide shelter for small animals.
  • The landscaper recommended using shrubby perennials for a fuller look.
  • In the wild, shrubby landscapes often indicate a transition to forested areas.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Botany

  • Shrubs are woody plants that are generally shorter than trees and often have multiple stems.
  • Some shrubs can produce beautiful flowers and fruits, making them popular in gardens.
  • Certain shrub species can improve soil quality by fixing nitrogen, which helps other plants grow.

Ecology

  • Shrubby areas provide important habitats for wildlife, including birds, insects, and small mammals.
  • These areas can help prevent soil erosion by stabilizing the ground with their roots.
  • Shrubs can play a significant role in carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate climate change.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, shrubs are used in landscaping to create privacy shields and beautify spaces.
  • Some shrubs, like holly and boxwood, have historical significance in traditional crafts and decorations, especially around holidays.
  • Certain bushy plants have been used in herbal medicine and folklore for their healing properties.

Gardening

  • Shrubs can be evergreen or deciduous, meaning they can either keep their leaves all year or lose them in winter.
  • Pruning shrubs regularly helps them grow healthier and can encourage flowering.
  • Some gardeners choose native shrubs because they require less water and attract local wildlife.

Origin of 'shrubby'

The word 'shrubby' derives from the noun 'shrub', which comes from the Old English 'scrubbe' meaning 'a bush or low tree'. The term has been used in English since at least the 15th century to refer to a plant that is smaller than a tree but larger than a herb. The '-y' suffix is often added in English to form adjectives that describe a characteristic, thus 'shrubby' indicates the quality of being like a shrub. Over time, the word has maintained its original botanical meaning, encompassing a broad range of plants that share similar growth forms. Its usage reflects a tradition in horticulture where such plants are valued not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their practical functions in gardening and landscaping.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,065, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.