holly
/ˈhɒli/
noun
Origin
Proto-Germanic
*huln- — holly tree
Overview
Meaning Now
- An evergreen shrub or tree of the genus Ilex, typically having glossy, spiky leaves and bright red berries.
Language path
Proto-Germanic → Old English → Middle English → English
Earliest form
holen
Earliest period
Old English (before 12th century)
Journey
The holly has long been associated with winter solstice traditions in Northern Europe due to its ability to remain green when other plants lose their leaves, symbolizing resilience and life during the coldest months.
Evolution
- Old English
holen
“holly tree”
- Middle English
holin
“holly tree”
- Early Modern English
holly
“evergreen plant”
Connections
Word parts
holl
root
holly
y
suffix
adjectival or diminutive noun marker
Related across languages
Old High German
hulis
holly
Middle Dutch
huls
holly
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Related to holly
External references use DefinedTerm semantics.